If you have a problem with gambling and you’d like to stop, confidential, non-judgemental, expert advice, treatment and support is available.
NHS West Midlands Gambling Harms Service
If you are worried about your own or someone else’s gambling, help is available. Gambling treatment services are delivered virtually or at the clinic. There is also a digital programme which can be accessed 24/7.
The service offers support for specific problems experienced by individuals, and support and advice to family members and carers.
The service, delivered by Inclusion, is part of the Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. They are a clinical team of psychologists, therapists, mental health nurses and psychiatrists.
The West Midlands Gambling Harms Clinic is a free and confidential service open to anyone who is:
- 18 years old and above.
- Registered with a GP in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire, Birmingham, Solihull, Black Country, Coventry, Warwickshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
- Has problems with their gambling, resulting in harm to themselves and other people.
You can self-refer by going to visiting their website or calling 0300 123 0996.
You can also read more information about their digital offer in their leaflet: WMGHC Online Service Leaflet.
GamCare is the leading provider of information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. They operate the National Gambling HelpLine seven days a week from 8am – Midnight on Freephone 0808 8020 133 or via web chat. For more information: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/
Aquarius is a West Midlands based group helping people overcome the harms caused by alcohol, drugs and gambling. They work closely with individuals, families and friends to help you with each step of your journey to recovery. For more information: https://aquarius.org.uk/gambling/
If you have been affected by someone else’s gambling
If you’re having problems because of another person’s gambling, it’s best to be honest with them about it. They need to know how their behaviour is affecting you.
Support is also available to people who are worried about someone else’s gambling:
GamCare
Offers support and information for partners, friends and family of people who gamble compulsively.
GamAnon
Local support groups for anyone affected by someone else’s gambling problem – find your nearest group.
How safe is your gambling? Try this questionnaire:
- Have you bet more than you could really afford to use?
- Have you felt people criticised your betting or told you that you had a gambling problem, regardless of whether or not you thought it was true?
- Have you felt guilty about the way you gamble, or what happens when you gamble?
Score 0 for each time you answer “never”
Score 1 for each time you answer “sometimes”
Score 2 for each time you answer “most of the time”
Score 3 for each time you answer “almost always”
If your total score is 4 or higher, you may be a problem gambler. Please see information above for confidential support and advice