News
Local help for problem gamblers in Dorset, Devon and Somerset
11 January 2010
From 11 January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available to problem gamblers and their families in Dorset, Devon and Somerset. GamCare has trained an additional six counsellors working with its local partner Steven James Counselling to provide the service.
Gerry Jones, Practice Manager at Steven James Counselling, says:
“I am delighted that the Steven James practice, in partnership with GamCare, is able to extend this unique service farther afield to meet the needs of those in West Dorset, Devon and South and West Somerset. Our qualified and experienced counsellors have had the additional benefit of GamCare’s specific training to help them better understand the particular issues faced by problem gamblers and their families.”
A client who has benefitted from GamCare counselling says:
“I am almost four weeks off gambling or any other addictions and on my road of recovery. I was addicted for 26 years to one thing or another. Four weeks might not sound a lot but for me it is a new life. … I can truly say from my heart that if it was not for your time, your understanding, your professionalism and your sympathy, I could not have done it.”
GamCare CEO Andy McLellan says:
“GamCare has already enjoyed a very successful partnership with Steven James Counselling and I’m particularly pleased at this latest development. GamCare’s telephone and online helplines, and our online self-help forum are there for anyone concerned about their own or a family member’s gambling, but sometimes face to face counselling is what’s needed. I am delighted that Steven James Counselling and GamCare are now able to provide this vital service in these areas where there has been no provision locally. Anyone wanting help or advice should contact the GamCare HelpLine: 0845 6000 133 or go online at www.gamcare.org.uk.”
Press contact:
Ms Gerry Jones, Steven James Counselling, 01202 740044, office@sjcounselling.co.uk
Eileen Kinghan, GamCare, 020 7801 7003, eileen@gamcare.org.uk
NOTES FOR EDITORS
1. GamCare, established in 1997, is a registered charity and the leading national authority on the provision of counselling, advice and practical help for anyone experiencing or affected by problem gambling. GamCare delivers free counselling face to face and one to one at two locations in London, in Manchester, nationally through a network of partner agencies, and online. The charity trains its Partners in treating problem gambling and funds them to deliver support to anyone who needs it. For more information about GamCare and how it is funded, and for problem gambling statistics go to http://www.gamcare.org.uk/pages/faqs.html.
2. Anyone concerned about the amount of time or money that they or someone close to them is spending gambling can talk direct and in confidence to an adviser from 8am to midnight on the HelpLine 0845 6000 133 and its equivalent online, NetLine at www.gamcare.org.uk. GamCare’s approach is non-judgemental. Support is available one to one or through the forum and chat room. Advisers can give information about how to access the nearest counselling locally or contacts for other relevant services such as debt help.
3. The Steven James Practice is a Dorset-based charity founded in 2004, providing support and counselling to improve the lives of people affected by HIV, Hepatitis B and C and issues related to for instance drugs and alcohol, gambling, eating disorders, self harm, bereavement, abuse and stress. The practice also aims to heighten awareness amongst the public at large through presentations and training workshops to professionals as well as groups and individuals, with the emphasis on harm minimisation and reduction. All counsellors are diploma rated and accredited with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. The Steven James Practice works alongside existing NHS and voluntary services to help provide a comprehensive pathway for clients.