In particular, the partnership brings together practical free tools, as well as support that has been proven to help people stop gambling and maintain a successful recovery.
It has achieved this through a combination of personal support via GamCare’s trained advisors, free access to Gamban’s blocking software, as well as signposting towards registration for the free self-exclusion scheme, Gamstop.
And to merit its success so far, Gamban’s blocking software has been downloaded more than 9,000 times since the campaign's launch.
Through research evaluation, Ipsos has highlighted the impact of the tools. It notes that those who did stop or reduce their online gambling, a noticeable reduction in gambling-related harms was observed. People reported being in a better financial position, even after just a few months.
In general, respondents noticed their general wellbeing was a key area of improvement – this also relates to positive relationships as well as performance at work.
One anonymous participant commented: “It gives you the stonewall that you need, that you've got to have to stop and then, once you've stopped, then you can start doing the work on why you did it and what the real problems are behind it. And that's where the counselling was excellent because it did help me to realise what the real problems were.”
Anna Hemmings, GameCare Chief Executive, added: “Since the TalkBanStop partnership started we’ve seen a huge value in pooling our tools and support together to help people stop gambling online. Throughout the pilot year we’ve seen how having all three of our interventions, layered together, have amplified the impact for individuals who need them most.
“Additionally, what we’ve heard from people is the value in using gambling transaction blocks offered by banks as an added layer of protection. While the tools and support have been effective, the bank blocks are shown to go one step further in restricting payments in land-based gambling venues such as betting shops. Going forward, we hope to work with more financial services to highlight the positive impact that TalkBanStop can have.”
