GamCare evaluation shows positive impact of Money Guidance Service
The service is described as the first and only national initiative offering gambling-specific money guidance in the UK.
Key points:
– GamCare’s Money Guidance Service was evaluated as effective in supporting gambling-related financial harm
– Report highlights improvements in financial stability, debt reduction and wellbeing among service users
– Service is the first national initiative to bridge gambling support with debt advice in the UK
GamCare has released the first full evaluation of its Money Guidance Service, a national initiative designed to provide gambling-specific financial support to people affected by gambling-related harm.
The report, entitled ‘Bridging the Gap between Gambling Support and Debt Advice,’ was independently evaluated by Dr Xia Lin and Professor Alessio D’Angelo.
Findings suggest the programme is addressing a gap in the UK’s gambling harms and debt advice landscape, offering support to those experiencing financial difficulties linked to gambling.
Launched in 2022 as a pilot in the East Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber, the Money Guidance Service expanded nationally in 2023. It is now available to anyone accessing GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline, alongside treatment and support services.
According to the evaluation, the one-to-one guidance provided has improved financial stability, reduced debt and supported recovery for many participants.
Users also reported that budgeting tools offered through the service increased confidence and gave a sense of long-term security.
Internal training for helpline advisors was highlighted as a further benefit, improving referrals and equipping staff with practical financial knowledge.
Good to know: GamCare reports that financial difficulties are a common issue for those affected by gambling, with 76% of callers to its helpline citing money problems as a key impact
Commenting on the findings, Kathy Wade, Money Guidance Service Manager at GamCare, stated: “It’s fantastic to see the impact that the team has had in helping people recover from gambling-related financial issues, especially as we continue to see rising costs impacting people in Britain.
“This report highlights the important steps the team is taking in helping people get back on their feet after gambling-related debt. We’re looking forward to implementing the recommendations of the report and continuing to build an excellent service which helps people get back in control of their finances.”
One service user, quoted anonymously, added: “When I was gambling, I felt like I had completely lost control of everything.
“The Money Guidance Service has definitely helped me achieve being more confident with my money. I’m not as anxious anymore and I’m not worrying about where I’m going to get next week’s food shopping from.”
Gambling Insider delivers the latest industry news, in-depth features, and operator reviews that you can trust. Our team combines rigorous editorial standards with decades of specialized expertise to ensure accuracy and fairness. We are committed to delivering clear, impartial, and dependable coverage across the global gambling sector.
