27 November 2024

This week, Minister for Gambling, Baroness Twycross, visited CNWL’s National Problem Gambling Clinic.

Established in 2008, it was the first ever NHS clinic to treat gambling disorders and pioneered treatment in the UK, contributing to professional training, policy development and increased awareness of gambling harms both nationally and internationally.

The visit comes as the Government announces plans to implement a statutory levy on gambling profits to help tackle the issue of gambling addiction.

The funds raised through the levy will support NHS England and appropriate bodies in Scotland and Wales to develop a comprehensive treatment system, including recovery and aftercare.

Additionally, funding will go towards prevention initiatives such as public health campaigns and training for frontline workers. A portion will also support UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in developing a bespoke research programme to inform future policy and regulation.

Up to 3,500 individuals are treated annually across 15 clinics nationwide. The NHS aims to expand this capacity amid growing demand for services, and the levy can play a key role in this.

Minister for Gambling, Baroness Twycross, said:

“Gambling harm can ruin people’s savings, relationships, and ultimately lives. We are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk, as well as providing effective support for those affected. 

“The introduction of the first legally mandated levy will be instrumental in supporting research, raising awareness and reducing the stigma around gambling-related harm. We are also helping to protect those at risk, with a particular focus on young people, by introducing stake limits to online slots. These measures will help build an NHS fit for our future whilst also allowing millions of people to continue to gamble safely.”

During the visit, Baroness Twycross met with members of the clinic’s multidisciplinary team, which includes clinical psychologists, therapists, mental health practitioners, psychiatrists, and peer support workers. The team shared case studies, discussed treatment models, and talked about opportunities to collaborate with third sector organisations and charities.

Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones, National Clinical Advisor on Gambling Harms, highlighted the significance of the levy:

“We know 2.5 percent of the population are exhibiting significant symptoms of gambling disorder, with many more experiencing harms from their own or others’ gambling.

“This levy allows the UK to take a public health approach, and by funding evidence-based treatment, high-quality research, and an independent prevention strategy, we can finally address the severe impacts of gambling on communities. This is the start of a new era, no longer shaped by industry narratives but driven by a commitment to protect individuals and communities from gambling harm.”

Claire Murdoch, NHS National Director for Mental Health, said: 

"Problem gambling can completely ruin lives and the issue has skyrocketed, with NHS services treating record numbers and our latest data showing a staggering 129% increase in service referrals compared with the same period last year.

"I am delighted to welcome this commitment to a mandatory gambling levy which the NHS, bereaved families and the voluntary sector have been calling for so we can treat this growing problem – and we will continue to work with government to do all we can to protect problem gamblers from this billion-pound industry."

To find out more about the National Problem Gambling Clinic click here.