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News Archive

December 2012

ARA’s young people’s gambling service welcomes the launch of BigDeal GamCare’s young people’s website
ARA are currently working with GamCare on a two year education pilot in colleges and youth organisations in Bristol. The project builds on ARA’s extensive experience of working with young people in other fields such as drug and alcohol education and treatment. The Gambling Education programme has been designed to help young people understand the risks involved in and, for those already experiencing difficulty with gambling, it offers much needed support.

November 2012

BigDeal - Hollyoaks ‘Darren’ Supports GamCare’s Young People’s Website
Hollyoaks star, Ashley Taylor Dawson, is lending his support to ‘BigDeal’, the new young people’s website launched today by GamCare.

GamCare CEO to stand down
Andy McLellan, Chief Executive of GamCare is stepping down from his role this month. Announcing his departure he said:

“I have been CEO at GamCare for nearly 4 years, and before that advised the charity as a consultant for more than a year. I had never intended to become CEO but when I was offered the job it was hard to refuse. But it’s now time for me to apply what I’ve learnt as a charity CEO and in my previous career as a senior leader in Whitehall on a wider stage and in other ways.

Professor Jon E Grant joins GamCare Board
Professor Jon E Grant, Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Chicago, is to join GamCare’s Board of Trustees.

Moving in the right direction - GamCare’s achievements and future plans
GamCare today published ‘Moving in the right direction - Review and Plan 2012-15’. The review begins with an analysis of the nature of problem gambling, looks at what happens when gambling stops being a pleasure and becomes a dependence and outlines the devastating effect on the gambler and those close to them.

GamCare President calls for realism and collaboration to tackle problem gambling
The President of GamCare, Lord Sharman of Redlynch, has challenged politicians, the industry, the regulator and the media to face up to the facts about gambling in the 21st century.

Keynote address by Lord Sharman of Redlynch, GamCare President
A year ago I gave my first speech as President of GamCare to this illustrious, annual gathering. I fear it was all too apparent to those of you who were there that I was the new kid on the block. It certainly was to me. There was a lot to learn, a lot to take in - and lots of people with different perspectives and different views, most very firmly held indeed. Though not all, I have found, were so firmly based on the facts.

October 2012

GamCare is awarded The Helplines Association Quality Standard Accreditation
GamCare is very pleased to announce that we have received The Helplines Association Quality Standard Accreditation. The award covers all GamCare’s FrontLine services: HelpLine, NetLine, Forums and Chat Rooms and provides assurance to all callers - and our funders - that GamCare services are of the highest quality.

Dominic Harrison joins GamCare Board
Dominic Harrison, the former Chief Executive of Gala Coral, with a long and respected career in the gambling and wider leisure industry, will join GamCare’s Board of Trustees in November.

August 2012

GamCare announces new initiatives for young people
GamCare is today announcing two new initiatives to help 12-18 year olds understand how gambling works and most importantly how they can avoid problems now and in the future.

Joint Press Release Responsible Gambling Trust and GamCare
New funding agreement secures treatment services for ‘problem gamblers’ to 2015

Release date: 31 July 2012

July 2012

GamCare Statement on Select Committee Report 24th July 2012
GamCare is pleased that three of the main issues it raised in its evidence to the Committee - improving public awareness, tackling education for under-16s and helping gamblers to help themselves - all figure in the Committee’s final report, published today.

April 2012

GamCare HelpLine launches Freephone trial
From Monday 2 April, anyone needing help with a gambling problem can call the GamCare HelpLine free on 0808 8020 133. GamCare and the Responsible Gambling Trust have launched a one year trial of a new Freephone number for the national helpline which provides confidential advice and support to anyone who needs help with gambling related problems.

November 2011

GamCare calls for responsible gambling education to be part of the school curriculum
GamCare are today calling on the Department for Education to ensure responsible gambling education is part of the school curriculum

Lord Sharman, GamCare’s new President, sets challenging new target for GamCare
At the GamCare Conference 2011, the organisation's new president Lord Sharman of Redlynch OBE set out ambitious targets for the next three years.

October 2011

GAMCARE WELCOMES NEW FUNDING PARTNERSHIP
GamCare and The GREaT Foundation agree funding contracts.

August 2011

GamCare response to GREaT statement regarding the gambling helpline

July 2011

GamCare response to RGF statement regarding termination of agreement with the GREaT Foundation

Protecting gamblers online
GamCare response to the UK Government proposals regarding online gambling

June 2011

New President for GamCare provides a powerful voice for responsible gambling
Lord Sharman of Redlynch, Chairman of Aviva, is to be the new President of GamCare, the national responsible gambling charity.

April 2011

The GamCare year 2010/2011
A message from GamCare Chief Executive Andy McLellan

February 2011

GamCare statement in response to the British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2010
The latest British Gambling Prevalence Survey reports a rise in problem gambling.

December 2010

GamCare consultation on changing the helpline
GamCare consults on RGF proposals to change the helpline number

October 2010

Take part in The Helplines Association survey
Have you ever used or considered using our or any other helplines? The Helplines Association, which is the member body for helplines, is developing a new version of its Quality Standard for helplines and wants to know what is important to those who have used or may use helplines. They would appreciate it if you could spend a couple of minutes answering five questions. The survey is anonymous

September 2010

GamCare targets teen gambling
2% of adolescents - 60,000 12-15 year olds - are problem gamblers. Yet only 5% of parents would stop their child from gambling. Some of the findings brought together in GamCare's report published today. Beating the odds: preventing teenage problem gambling sets out GamCare’s programme for action.

New gambling counselling service for Harrogate and Bradford
GamCare announces a new partnership delivering specialist counselling for problem gamblers and their families in Harrogate and surrounding district, and in the Bradford area, following the closure of HADA earlier this year.

August 2010

International Study on Internet Gambling
Do you ever gamble on the internet?
If so (and you are over 18 years old), you are invited to complete a short questionnaire online. It will concern your thoughts and feelings, and will take no more than 10 minutes to do. This research is being conducted by a PhD student in the School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne Australia.

GamCare President
Andrew McIntosh, President of GamCare for more than 5 years, has died at the age of 77. Lord McIntosh of Haringey became President shortly after leaving the Government for whom, as a DCMS Minister, he steered the 2005 Gambling Act through Parliament.

July 2010

GamCare seeks your views about our website
We're conducting a survey to help us improve our website and would welcome your feedback.

GamCare reports rise in younger callers seeking help
Charity GamCare’s national telephone and online helpline teams answered over 35,000 calls in 2009/10, including 47% more calls to the NetLine, which is favoured by female and younger gamblers. The statistics are in the 2010 GamCare Annual Review, published today.

GamCare celebrates its first year of helping problem gamblers in Greater Manchester
On 1 July 2010 national charity GamCare’s counselling service in Greater Manchester marks its first anniversary.

June 2010

Tom Kavanagh CBE appointed to GamCare's Board of Trustees
Tom Kavanagh CBE, who headed the Gaming Board for Great Britain for 14 years, joins GamCare’s Board of Trustees.

May 2010

GamCare helps sixth-formers understand problem gambling
GamCare has contributed to the Wellcome Trust's online teaching resource, the Big Picture on Addiction.

April 2010

GamCare & Derman provide face to face help in Turkish and Kurdish
GamCare's specialist face to face counselling service for anyone affected by problem gambling is now accessible in Turkish and Kurdish, through a new partnership with Derman, a charity supporting the Kurdish, Turkish and Turkish Cypriot communities in London.

March 2010

Research into recovery from problem gambling
Questionnaire responses sought by post-graduate researcher at University of Glasgow.

February 2010

University of Greenwich PhD project on internet gambling seeks participants
Janette Davis, a psychology post-graduate at the University of Greenwich is looking for a representative cross-section of individuals to be interviewed, including those who have given up or reduced their gambling in the past year.

January 2010

Offenders in Nottingham offered GamCare counselling
GamCare’s specialist face to face counselling service is now available to prisoners in Nottingham and Whatton prisons.

Problem gambling help service expands to Derbyshire
From end January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available to problem gamblers and their families in Derbyshire.

Volunteers Sought for Research Study on Brain Activation during Gambling
A team of researchers at Swansea, Cardiff and Bangor universities are carrying out research into the brain and behavioural markers of vulnerability to problem and pathological gambling on behalf of the Wales Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. They have asked if Forum members meeting their criteria would be willing to take part in their study.

Problem gamblers aged 14-24 invited to take part in Nottingham Trent research
Jane Rigbye, a researcher at Nottingham Trent University, is carrying out research into ‘Young problem gamblers and barriers to treatment access’, a project supported and funded by the Responsible Gambling Fund. Jane also works for GamCare developing our strategy on reaching young people.

GamCare clarifies misquotation in Observer newspaper
An article in yesterday’s Observer misrepresented GamCare's viewpoint.

Problem gambling help service in Scotland expands
From 18 January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available additionally to problem gamblers and their families in the Dumfries area and in Tayside and east Fife.

Community Integrated Care extends GamCare help for problem gamblers to Cheshire
From 25January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available to problem gamblers and their families in Cheshire. GamCare’s partner Community Integrated Care (CIC) delivers GamCare counselling in the Liverpool, Halton, Sefton and St Helens areas and is extending its service.

Local specialist help for problem gamblers in Essex
From 11 January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available to problem gamblers and their families throughout Essex.

Local help for problem gamblers in Dorset, Devon and Somerset
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 responds to Written Ministerial Statement by Minister for Sport on Remote Gambling
GamCare welcomes the focus the Minister's statement has placed on this important issue.

The vast majority of remote gaming sites available to UK players are not licensed by the Gambling Commission. That is why we introduced GamCare Certification for remote operators.

December 2009

Problem gamblers in Lincolnshire can access GamCare's face to face help locally
GamCare, with the backing of East Lindsey District Council, now provides face to face support locally for problem gamblers and their families. The Council and its partners have funded the establishment of the counselling service. GamCare will fund the delivery of the counselling sessions through its existing and experienced specialist partner, Breakeven.

Free face to face help for problem gamblers in Staffordshire
IMPACT are now offering their service to anyone in neighbouring Staffordshire who can get to their premises in Shrewsbury and Telford. Depending on demand, IMPACT will open up new premises locally as well.

GamCare appoints new Clinical Services Director
Dr Sharon Kalsy today joins GamCare today from the Central and North West London Foundation NHS Trust, where she was employed as Clinical Psychologist for HIV and Sexual Health Services.

November 2009

Leisure industry champion appointed to GamCare’s Board of Trustees
John Brackenbury CBE joins GamCare’s Board of Trustees.

Delivery of specialist help for problem gamblers under threat
Funding for GamCare’s integrated and specialist national help services for problem gamblers is under threat by a proposal from the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board to ‘commission a national telephone help and advice line with web support’ at a cost of £1m a year.

Mayor launches new expanded service for problem gamblers in Dorset
The Mayor of the Borough of Poole, Counsellor Charles Meachin, will tomorrow officially mark the opening of Steven James Practice's new, larger premises at 9 Park Place, North Road, opposite Poole’s Civic Centre. The event takes place on Friday 27 November from 2.30pm and at 3.15pm the Mayor will cut the ribbon.

October 2009

Chris Eubank joins fight against problem gambling
GamCare today announces that world boxing champion Chris Eubank has become the charity’s first Ambassador. He will be supporting GamCare’s work to help problem gamblers and to encourage responsible gambling.

Gamblers in debt need better education and joined-up help
Publication of the first UK research focusing on problem gambling and debt has shown that much more could and should be done to help problem gamblers and prevent people from gambling excessively.

More problem gamblers receiving help than ever before
GamCare has published its Care Services Report 2008, showing a step-change in the numbers of people obtaining help, advice and support from the charity which provides advice, support and counselling for problem gamblers across Great Britain.

GamCare Certification recognises Gala Coral’s added achievements in player protection and social responsibility
Gala Coral Group has just achieved its annual GamCare Certification, underlining its ongoing commitment to player protection and responsible gambling. The group’s certificated websites include Coral.co.uk, Eurobet.com, Galabingo.com and Galacasino.co.uk. Gala Coral worked very closely with GamCare this year to ensure that they achieved the highest standards of best practice.

September 2009

Government Minister Gerry Sutcliffe launches problem gambling service in Manchester
Gerry Sutcliffe MP, the minister with responsibility for gambling, attended the afternoon event at Buile Hill Park Hall, Salford, on Friday 4 September at 2.00pm.

July 2009

GamCare's support now available in Greater Manchester
GamCare today announced that its free face to face counselling service is available for the first time to problem gamblers and their families in Manchester and surrounding areas.

June 2009

GamCare annual conference 2009
GamCare's 12th annual conference will be held on Monday 19 October 2009 at One Great George Street, Westminster, London SW1.

GamCare's response to the Qualititative follow-up of the British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2007
GamCare welcomes this research, prepared by NatCen for the Gambling Commission, and would support further in-depth consideration of some aspects.

First award of GamCare Certification to gambling affiliate website
In recognition of its implementation of the GamCare Code of Practice for Remote Gambling, FreeBingoHunter.com, the web’s premier free bingo finding website has today been awarded GamCare Certification.

Conference papers and presentations on GamCare website
Papers and presentations by GamCare staff are now published on our website.

GamCare welcomes voluntary funding route for problem gambling help
GamCare, the leading national treatment provider for problem gamblers, welcomes the decision of the Minister for Sport, Gerry Sutcliffe MP, to pursue voluntary arrangements for funding for research, education and treatment.

May 2009

Charity GamCare says voluntary funding is the best bet for UK’s problem gamblers
Speaking at an international conference on gambling in the United States, GamCare Chairman Anthony Jennens set out a convincing case for a voluntary system to fund a responsible gambling strategy in the UK which should continue to be delivered through the existing infrastructure. He emphasised the achievements delivered so far, with a voluntary system, the important role which GamCare has played in this over the last 12 years, and the significance of its status as an independent charity.

April 2009

York problem gamblers and their families have GamCare’s support locally
To complement the existing provision in North and West Yorkshire, GamCare together with partner organisation NECA begins delivery of free face to face counselling in York.

March 2009

First short-term residential support for problem gambling
Broadway Lodge, Weston-super-Mare, is now equipped to offer short-term residential treatment for problem gambling, funded by national charity GamCare.

February 2009

GamCare welcomes Strategy Board launch and hopes for rapid, and informed, decision-making
GamCare, the leading national treatment provider for problem gamblers, welcomed today’s announcement of the membership of the new Responsible Gambling Strategy Board which is to meet under the chairmanship of Dame Julia Neuberger. GamCare looks forward to working closely with it and ensuring it has the benefit of the Charity’s experience.

Business School at Swansea Metropolitan University is carrying out research into 'Effective Responsible Gambling Features in Cyberspace'
Would you like to participate in an online survey? Read more...

January 2009

New CEO for GamCare
On 1 February 2009 Andy McLellan, past Head of Gambling at DCMS, takes over from Geoffrey Godbold, who has been CEO since February 2006.

Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe visits GamCare at launch of OnLine Counselling Service
Gerry Sutcliffe MP visits GamCare’s Clapham Junction HQ today to view the range of telephone, online and face to face services the charity offers free to problem gamblers.

Government targets for a gambling levy fail to meet funding needs
The Secretary of State publishes consultation document on proposed levy

December 2008

Student research on behalf of Sunderland University in conjunction with SouthTyneside College
Would you like to participate in a Student research project looking to understand more about online gambling. Read more...

ICM conducts a qualitative research project on FOBTs on behalf of the ABB
Would you like to participate in an online survey? Read more...

November 2008

20th NOVEMBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN LEEDS
For anyone affected by problem gambling, professional help will be available in Leeds from 20th November 2008.

20th NOVEMBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN WOLVERHAMPTON
Aquarius has now expanded their service into Wolverhampton and surrounding areas.

19th NOVEMBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN N YORKS
GamCare welcomes new Partner in N Yorks delivering free help for problem gambling.

19th NOVEMBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN LANCS & N YORKS
GamCare welcomes new Partner in Lancs & N Yorks delivering free help for problem gambling.

MMU and Salvation Army looking for participants in a joint project to understand more about the links between gambling and debt
Would you like to take part in a research project to understand more about the relationship between gambling and debt? Read more...

October 2008

National Lottery Commission secondment an excellent success
Helen Sear, Online Services & HelpLine Manager, returns to the National Lottery Commission following an exciting and interesting secondment scheme. Read more...

New Study from MMU and the Salvation Army, supported by GamCare and Money Action Trust
Research into gambling and debt...

13th OCTOBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN SCARBOROUGH & WHITBY
For anyone affected by problem gambling, professional help will be available in Scarborough & Whitby from 13th October 2008.

6th OCTOBER 2008 - FREE LOCAL HELP FOR ANYONE AFFECTED BY PROBLEM GAMBLING IN MAIDSTONE & NEWMARKET
For anyone affected by problem gambling, professional help will be available in Maidstone (covering Kent) & Newmarket (covering Cambridgeshire) from 6th October 2008.

August 2008

Dr Roslyn Corney and her colleague Penny Worlidge, in the Department of Psychology and Counselling (University of Greenwich in London), are conducting research on the experiences of parents who have an adult child (18 or over) with a gambling problem or..
If you are a parent with an child over 18 who is gambling too much, and are interested in taking part, you can talk to Dr Corney confidentially at 0208 331 8926 (her direct line) or you can email her on R.H.Corney@gre.ac.uk or write to her at Bronte Hall, Avery Hill Road, London SE9 2UG

GamCare Response to Gambling Commission's Review of Research, Education and Treatment
GamCare Response to the 2nd Consultation Paper.

May 2008

Salford Seminar
GamCare Chair, Anthony Jennens, spoke at the 2008 Salford Seminar on the topic of Minimising the Distress caused by Excessive Gambling. Read his speech here...

Women and Gambling Conference - June 3rd 2008
This event is an opportunity to bring together academics, industry representatives and opinion formers to explore current and future trends around female participation in both the National Lottery and gambling more widely.

March 2008

GAMCARE COUNSELLING RESUMES IN CUMBRIA *NEW PARTNERSHIP*
GamCare, the UK’s leading authority on problem gambling and leading provider of help, support and counselling services to problem gamblers, is delighted to announce that it has partnered with The Cumbria Counselling Group (CCG) to ensure the residents of Cumbria have access to GamCare counselling.

NetLine/Helpline Advisors
As part of the continued expansion of GamCare services we are seeking to appoint self motivated individuals to provide effective help, advice and crisis counselling by telephone and on-line. You will have completed a basic counselling course (covering listening skills, use of empathy and self-awareness) and have a good standard of written English.

NetLine advisers will be familiar with using the internet to communicate and have a competent typing speed. HelpLine advisers will have excellent telephone skills including clear spoken English with a calm and confident manner. You will be a good team player, enjoy communicating with your colleagues, as well as being able to work without close supervision. An understanding of working on a helpline or using interactive services would be an advantage.

February 2008

The Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge is conducting research on regular gamblers.
The Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, is looking for volunteers who gamble regularly to take part in a research study...

Diary date - GamCare Conference 2008

The GamCare Conference will this year be held at the Institute of Director's, Pall Mall, on the 14th October.

More information will be provided as it becomes available

Dr Roslyn Corney, in the Department of Psychology and Counselling (University of Greenwich in London), is conducting research on women who gamble and the impact on their lives.
If you are female, gamble from home and are interested in taking part in her study, you can talk to her confidentially at 0208 331 8926 (her direct line) or you can email her on R.H.Corney@gre.ac.uk or write to her at Bronte Hall, Avery Hill Road, London SE9 2UG and she will get back to you.

January 2008

STAFFORDSHIRE JOINS GAMCARE’S NATIONWIDE COUNSELLING NETWORK
Adsis has joined its nationwide network of problem gambling counselling partners. Like GamCare, Adsis provides information, advice and support, be it by telephone, on a one to one basis or by way of group therapy to anyone concerned about their own or someone else’s misuse of alcohol and/or drugs. All Adsis’ services are provided by a combination of fully trained project staff and volunteer support workers.

GAMCARE MOVES OFFICE & LAUNCHES FRESH BRAND IDENTITY
GamCare has moved to new premises opposite the busiest train station in the country. In conjunction with the move, GamCare has undertaken a review of its brand and associated literature with a view to updating its look and feel at the end of its tenth year.

GAMCARE’S NATIONWIDE COUNSELLING PARTNERS EXPAND
GamCare is delighted to announce that Sussex Breakeven, GamCare’s longstanding regional specialist problem gambling counselling service in Sussex, has opened new counselling premises in Eastbourne.

November 2007

Recruitment: GamCare NetLine Advisor
If you would like to be part of a friendly and caring team providing online real time support, advice and information to problem gamblers, their families and friends please read more...

GAMCARE EXPANDS COUNSELLING NETWORK
GamCare has partnered with the Addiction Recovery Agency (ARA), to provide the residents of Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset and the county of Somerset with access to GamCare problem gambling counselling.

GamCare are recruiting for Part Time Gambling Counsellor
Can you provide support for individuals, couples and groups of problem gamblers?

October 2007

2008 International Gambling Conference
2008 International Gambling Conference 21st-23rd February 2008 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Auckland, New Zealand.

September 2007

GAMCARE RESPONSE TO BRITISH PREVALENCE SURVEY
GamCare notes the findings of the British Prevalence Survey published today.

The British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2007 - Gambling Commission Press Release

GAMCARE EXPANDS REGIONAL COUNSELLING NETWORK TO DORSET
GamCare, the UK’s leading authority on problem gambling and leading provider of help, support and counselling services to problem gamblers, is delighted to announce that it has partnered with Steven James Practice (www.poolecounselling.co.uk) to ensure the residents of Dorset have access to GamCare counselling.

August 2007

GAMCARE CAMPAIGNS FOR INCLUSION OF HELPLINE NUMBER
A wave of gambling advertising will be upon us at the end of this week. GamCare deplores the Government’s decision not to require these new gambling advertisements to include the Helpline number.

Recruitment: GamCare Partner Manager
GamCare is recruiting for a Partner Manager...

Brian Pomeroy CBE takes over as Chair of the Gambling Commission
After nearly nine years with the National Lottery Commission, Brian Pomeroy CBE has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Gambling Commission.

National Lottery Commission announces Preferred Bidder for Third National Lottery Licence
Following a hard-fought competition with high quality bids and six months of rigorous evaluation, the Commission is pleased to announce that Camelot Group plc is the preferred bidder to operate the third National Lottery licence. In addition, they have selected Sugal & Damani UK Ltd as the Reserve Bidder.

NetLine extends service 10am-7pm Monday to Friday - live confidential online help

GamCare's new treatment service will now open 10am to 7pm Monday to Friday.

NetLine provides Internet-based real time, confidential advice and referral for people affected by problem gambling.

The NetLine was initially available between the hours of 10am and 6pm Monday - Friday.

TALK TO AN ADVISOR click here

July 2007

GamCare 10th Annual Conference
The GamCare Conference will this year be held at One Birdcage Walk, Westminster on the 9th October. Speakers include Lord McIntosh, Esther Rantzen, Gerry Sutcliffe MP and Andrew Tottenham.

May 2007

Can you help? Dr Roslyn Corney is looking for women who gamble predominantly from home.
Dr Corney is looking to interview 30 women in order to conduct a study on women who gamble from home. Dr Corney has been funded by RIGT.

GamCare Conference 2007
The GamCare conference 2007 will be held on Tuesday October 9th at the 1, Birdcage Walk, Westminster, London SW1H 9JJ.

The Gambling Commission Publishes Statistics on Participation in Remote Gambling
The Gambling Commission publishes the latest figures from a quarterly statistical series that provides a snapshot of participation by adults in remote gambling, including online gambling, in Britain.

GamCare are recruiting HelpLine Advisers
GamCare is currently recruiting advisers to work on our telephone helpline based at GamCare’s London office.

Can you help? Research into Internet Gambling and the role of the family for the University of Leeds...
If you would be willing to be interviewed please contact Charlotte Kenten, email: c.kenten@leeds.ac.uk tel: 0113 343 8294 (direct line) or postal: LSSI, Beech Grove House, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT.

April 2007

GAMCARE PUBLISHES 2006 CARE SERVICES REPORT
GAMCARE PUBLISHES 2006 CARE SERVICES REPORT

GamCare has today published its 2006 Care Services Report. The Care Services Report is intended to provide a snapshot of those clients who utilised GamCare’s services over the year.

March 2007

GamCare are recruiting: Team Administrator

February 2007

Bournemouth student needs a volunteer to be interviewed!
A final year student wishes to interview an individual that is at least one year into their recovery to discuss their problem gambling experience.

Response to submission of bids for the third National Lottery licence
GamCare notes the announcement by the National Lottery Commission (NLC) of its receipt today of two bids for the third operating licence for the National Lottery.

GamCare are recruiting Training Officers
Can you deliver quality training programmes for counsellors, partners and industry?

January 2007

Statement Re Casino Advisory Panel Recommendation
Assuming Parliament confirms the award of the regional casino licence to Manchester, GamCare looks forward to continuing to work with Manchester City Council and, critically, with its chosen casino operator...

Manchester wins Super-Casino
Manchester has been chosen as the surprise location of Britain's first Las Vegas-style super-casino.

November 2006

Statement re programme to be shown on BBC’s Panorama on Sunday night, ‘Online Gambling - Britain’s Newest Obsession’
GamCare notes today’s press reports regarding the programme to be shown on BBC’s Panorama on Sunday night entitled ‘Online Gambling - Britain’s Newest Obsession’.

GamCare Appoints Director of Communications, Nicola Crewe-Read.
The Board of GamCare is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicola Crewe-Read (nee Weiner) as Director of Communications with immediate effect. Nicola will assume responsibility for all of GamCare’s media relationships and will be the first point of contact for all press enquiries.

GamCare are recruiting...

September 2006

GamCare Conference 2006
The GamCare conference 2006 will be held on October 10th at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5ED.

July 2006

Under 16s and the National Lottery
Latest independent research published today by the National Lottery Commission (NLC) confirms that today’s 12 -15 year olds say they are considerably less likely to play National Lottery games then their year 2000 counterparts.

June 2006

New Publication - GamCare release 2005 Care Services Report
GamCare are pleased to today release the Care Services Report 2005 providing a breakdown of the use of GamCare's Helpline and Counselling services.

May 2006

Gambling Commission publishes new approach to licensing, compliance and enforcement of gambling laws
The Gambling Commission has today set out how it will monitor and regulate the activities of British gambling operators, and the action it will take against those who fail to comply with its rules or who run illegal gambling operations.

Summerschool on Prevention and Treatment of Gambling Problems
28 and 29 August 2006. AF Castle, Lund University, Lund, Sweden

1st Global Remote and E-Gambling Research Institute (GREGRI) conference
The Global Remote and E-Gambling Research Institute (GREGRI), the first private, non-profit research organization focuses on all aspects of remote gambling and e-gambling, including the economical, mathematical, legal, social and psychological aspects.

April 2006

Public asked about TV casino ads
Casinos and gambling websites could be allowed to advertise on television and radio under a relaxation of rules.

Have your say - Help shape regulation of the National Lottery

Study looks into gambling habits
Gamblers will be put under the microscope in a study of betting habits by the University of Glasgow.
Researchers will talk to gamblers in casinos, betting shops, arcades and bingo halls, those who play the lottery and internet gamblers.

Eighth annual Global Interactive Gaming Summit and Expo GIGSE
May 16-18, 2006. Palais des Congres, Montreal, Canada. For more information click here

March 2006

Local Authorities to provide vital help for problem gamblers
GamCare, the national charity for promoting responsibility in gambling, has signed agreements with local authorities to provide helpline and face to face counselling services for problem gamblers.

Gambling Commission publishes proposed new rules to govern gambling in Britain
The Gambling Commission has today published a draft of the new rules which will govern British gambling in future.

January 2006

College gambles on casino classes
Students are getting the chance to train as super croupiers in Britain's first gaming academy.

Report considers casino options
An independent consultancy has published a report on what it believes the key factors are in deciding where the UK's super casino should be built.

November 2005

Remote Gambling Association releases Codes of Practice
The RGA today published codes of practice on social responsibility and age verification. They are designed to produce a robust framework that addresses the key issues associated with problem and underage gambling.

Gambling Commission announces new Birmingham head office
Victoria Square House in Birmingham is to be the new head office for the Gambling Commission, the newly-established independent watchdog for gambling in Britain.

Clampdown on internet casino ads
Internet casino firms are facing a UK government clampdown over concerns some are breaking strict advertising laws.

Ryanair plans in-flight gambling
Ryanair is planning facilities to allow its passengers to gamble during flights, and says the move could do away with the need to charge air fares.

October 2005

GamCare online chat/support room
GamCare will soon be launching a chat/support room for Forum members to talk 'live' with others. This will be an extension of the Forum itself offering the opportunity for immediate discussion and the sharing of advice and information.

Gambling Commission launches major consultation on licensing and regulation of gambling
The Gambling Commission - the new independent watchdog for gambling in Britain - has today published its draft Statement of Principles for consultation.

New gambling watchdog launched
The Gambling Commission, the new independent regulator for gambling in Britain, is formally launched on 1 October 2005.

September 2005

GamCare Conference 2005
Gamcare will be holding it's 2005 annual conference on Wednesday 12th October.

August 2005

Can you help? Documentary project
A documentary film maker is looking to speak with young people in difficulty through gambling for an educational programme.

GamCare Message Forum and Support / Chat room

The Forum is for anyone working to overcome their own or somebody elses gambling problem. It is a moderated area where you can discuss, ask questions and offer advice.

We also operate a Support / Chat room several times a week led by a member of the GamCare team.

With over 2000 members you'll always find support on hand.

Join in today. Have your say, register and post messages here

July 2005

New Publication
GamCare News Summer 2005 - Now online. In it's 2nd issue since it had a makeover we have returned our publication to it's original title, GamCare News.

June 2005

The cost of online gambling
Online gambling may be growing in popularity but as punters rush to place their bets, there are fears internet gambling is plunging people into debt.

Lord McIntosh appointed as GamCare President
Lord McIntosh of Haringey, who retired from government at the last election, has spent the last two years steering the Gambling Bill through Parliament. He now steps on board at GamCare as President.

The allure of online poker
Online gaming firms PartyGaming and Empire Online, which both specialise in poker, announced plans on Thursday to sell shares on the London Stock Exchange.

May 2005

Publication - Care Services Report
GamCare are pleased to today release the Care Services Report 2004 providing an in depth breakdown of the use of GamCare's Helpline and Counselling services.

April 2005

Can you help? Psychologists in Manchester investigating decision making and behaviour of problem gamblers
Researchers at the University of Manchester are seeking volunteers who gamble to participate in a study of decision making, self control and risk-taking behaviour.

Gambling Bill set to become law
The Gambling Bill has been approved by the House of Lords after the government scaled down plans for eight regional "super-casinos" to just one.

It completed all its Lords stages on Wednesday and is set to become law when it returns to the Commons later.

Casino climbdown saves Gambling Bill
Tessa Jowell has struck a deal with the Tories to save the Gambling Bill, by agreeing to scale down plans for eight super casinos to just one.

Can you help? Television project
BBC2 are producing a series aimed at improving the financial situation of people in significant debt. Working with financial and lifestyle advisors along with family the programme will follow a week long challenge to regain control.

Limit on super-casinos could be cut in race to pass gambling bill
Ministers could be forced to reduce from eight the number of regional "super-casinos" allowed by the gambling bill to get the controversial legislation through the Lords in the dying days of this parliament.

The confrontation over gambling is one of several legislative flashpoints looming, as ministers race to rescue as many bills as possible before the election campaign starts.

March 2005

Can you help? Psychologists in Cambridge investigate brain mechanisms of gambling
Researchers at the University of Cambridge are seeking volunteers who gamble to participate in a study of decision making and risk-taking.

Can you help? Nottingham Trent University investigating how gambling problems develop
The study aims to gain a better understanding of how such problems develop, and how people cope with the issues.

US casino 'tricks' face ban in UK
Controversial new UK casinos will be banned from using American tricks of the trade to ensure they are "socially responsible", it has been suggested.

February 2005

Michael Smeaton leaves GamCare
Gamcare Expert Joins Anti Identity Fraud Company
GB Group, the leading provider of identity authentication and fraud prevention solutions for the gaming industry, has appointed Michael Smeaton as business development consultant for URU, the web based identity and age verification service.

Concerns over childhood gambling
Professor Mark Griffiths from Nottingham Trent University has spoken of his fears that the problem of child gambling is far greater than is being claimed in a government report.

Placing a bet on mobile phone gambling
A new report estimates that by 2009, mobile gambling services will generate revenues of more than $19.3bn, nearly one-third of all mobile entertainment revenues.

Pensioners take to gambling to make ends meet
Tens of thousands of hard-up pensioners are turning to gambling in a desperate attempt to boost their retirement incomes, according to a new report to be published this week.

Can you help? Documentary Film project
A Documentary Film maker is looking to speak to problem gamblers, and people affected by someone else's gambling problem for a short film about issues surrounding gambling and gambling addiction.

Poker gains popularity amongst American teens
Poker is one of the hottest things going for America's youth. No longer does the green felt of the table and pocket aces appeal only to senior citizens and hardcore card players. Home games are sprouting up all over with junior high, high school, college students and young professionals all getting into the mix.

January 2005

GamCare appoints new Chief Executive Officer
The Trustees of Gamcare are pleased to announce the appointment of a new full-time CEO, Ms Jill Davidson

Internet gambling increases
Online gambling is increasingly appealing to women. Some 30-40% of players in Britain are female, says comparison website uSwitch.com. Just 5% of women gamble off-line, its research found.

Gambling Bill moves to the House of Lords
The government will be forced to make further concessions to secure the passage of its battered bill to reform Britain's gambling laws, MPs and peers predicted last night as it cleared its final hurdle in the Commons.

Government warns on underage gambling
Gambling companies and banks were told by the Government and children's charities yesterday that they are not doing enough to stop children betting on the internet.

ATEI 2005 (25th - 27th January)
Now in its 61st year, ATEI has maintained its long-established position as the leading international exhibition for the gaming, gambling and amusement industries, attracting over 22,000 visitors from around the world.
For more information click here

December 2004

Jowell confirms Casino climbdown
Tessa Jowell has announced plans to limit the number of new casinos in the UK to 24, in a move branded a "humiliating retreat" by the Tories.
It puts an end to plans for up to 40 super casinos, originally outlined in the government's Gambling Bill. stead there will be a cap of eight new casinos in each size category - small, medium and large.

November 2004

IBC Gambling Bill Conference
Michael Smeaton will be presenting on social responsibility and age verification within the remote gambling sector on the 6th of December 2004, at the Cafe Royal, London. For more details click here

Betting halted at Sporting Options
Sporting Options, a small Sussex-based online betting exchange which has stunned customers and rivals with its apparent rapid growth, was yesterday placed in administration and police are believed to have been called in to investigate possible misuse of punters accounts.

'Super casino' plans scaled down
Plans for up to 40 Las Vegas-style 'super casinos' across the UK are to be scaled down, the government is expected to confirm on Tuesday.

The Gambling Bill has faced opposition from MPs, including Labour members, who fear an increase in gambling addicts.

Response to article in 'The Mail on Sunday'
STATEMENT BY BILL GALSTON OBE, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF GAMCARE, IN RESPONSE TO THE ARTICLE IN ‘THE MAIL ON SUNDAY’

Super casino plans are revisited
Plans for Vegas-style super casinos are being looked at again after ministers were left surprised by the level of opposition to the move.

MPs conducting a detailed scrutiny of the Gambling Bill were supposed to be looking at the clause dealing with super casinos on Thursday.

World Trade Organisation rules against US gambling ban
US laws prohibiting cross-border gambling break trade rules, the World Trade Organisation says.
The WTO case was brought by the Caribbean state of Antigua and Barbuda, host to many of the online casinos whose use is illegal in the US.

Majority back Gambling Bill
A backbench rebellion against plans to overhaul the laws governing gambling has failed but the government had a much reduced majority.

Jowell sticks by Gambling Bill
Tessa Jowell last night vowed to push on with her controversial gambling bill, insisting people would be given an effective veto over mega-casino complexes on their doorsteps.

October 2004

Gambling Law changes to be unveiled
The government's proposals for overhauling the gambling industry are to be published today, Tuesday 19th October 2004.

Public Education Project
A student from Farnborough College of Technology would like to speak to anyone who has suffered through a problem with their gambling who feels they may be able to contribute to the development of a public education video.

September 2004

Bookmakers face clampdown on roulette machines
Culture secretary Tessa Jowell yesterday warned that big-prize virtual roulette machines in betting shops will be the subject of close review before the government publishes its gambling bill next month.
"We have relatively low rates of problem gambling in the UK," she said. "And reform needs to be taken in steady steps, not giant leaps, if we are to keep it this way."

LGA/ DCMS and LACORS Conference - 25th Nov 2004
Peter Cox, Managing Director of GamCare will be discussing future services for problem gamblers, in light of the proposed new Gambling Bill. For more details click here

Jowell backs Slot Machine limits
Plans to limit slot machines offering massive prize money will go ahead as part of new gambling laws, says the government.

On-line casinos lure women into hidden addiction
Women and middle-class teenagers are now as likely to have a flutter as betting-shop punters because of the boom in internet casinos.
People who might once have restricted their gambling activities to an annual bet on the Grand National are becoming addicted to poker, blackjack, one-armed bandits and even online share dealing.

Exploring Fixed Odds Betting Terminals
In the last week Bookmakers have announced increased profits for the first half of this year. They attribute much of this increase to the rising popularity of Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs). In light of this, and a steady growth in the number of callers to the GamCare Helpline and those attending for face to face counselling mentioning FOBTs as their primary form of gambling, we thought it timely to take a look at these relatively new machines and the way they appear to have changed the face of gambling on the high street.

European I-Gaming Congress. 8th-10th November
GamCare will be presenting on Internet Gambling and underage access. For more information click here

August 2004

Female gambler stole to pay for addiction
A woman who stole more than £15,000 from work to pay for her gambling addiction has walked free from court.

Bookies face order to give unclaimed payouts to charity
Ministers are to force bookmakers to hand over millions of pounds in unclaimed winnings to gambling charities to appease public fears over the proposed liberalisation of betting laws.

Children at risk of big-stake gambling.
A new product available within family amusement arcades is being challenged by the Gaming Board and Government, who have grave concerns over it's legality and impact on problem gambling.

FSA Warns Spread Betting Firms
Spread betting companies have been warned by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) to clean up their act to protect investors, or face heavy fines in the future.

Government to crack down on online gambling by children
The Government has responded to last weeks study into underage gambling on the Internet, by threatening operators who do not block underage access with fines and even the removal of their licences.
Read more

Gaming Board warns of fraudulent lotteries and sweepstakes
The Gaming Board for Great Britain has issued a public warning following the rise in fraudulent lotteries and sweepstakes. Companies contacting individuals, usually via email, providing notification of large prize wins (often totaling millions of pounds or euros) must be treated with extreme caution.

July 2004

PRESS RELEASE - Underage Internet Gambling Study
Children as young as 11 can set up gambling accounts on a huge number of websites, new research reveals.

Underage Internet Gambling Study - GamCare's response
GamCare has outlined their key concerns from the results of the underage internet gambling study, and have called for a network of shared responsibility in order to resolve the issues surrounding underage access to Internet gambling.

Underage Internet Gambling - Study Report
The Study Report covers the background of the study, age verification systems currently available, how the study was carried out and the results.

Underage Internet Gambling - Read the view of the 16 year old Volunteer
An investigation co-ordinated by children's and gambling charities has exposed how easy it is for under-18s to gamble online.
London schoolgirl Ruby Carr, 16, was asked to log on to 37 popular gambling websites and was able to open accounts with 30 of them. She tells BBC News Online about her shock at the results.

Limit Vegas-style casinos, say MPs
The UK risks being over-run by Las Vegas-style casinos under proposed new gambling laws, MPs have warned. The joint scrutiny committee says steps must be taken to "avoid proliferation" of such venues.

Debit Cards and Underage Gambling on the Internet
The popularity of Internet gambling and betting continues to grow in the UK with new sites and gambling opportunities, seemingly appearing on a weekly basis, and sites attracting new customers daily. Probably the greatest advantage of Internet gambling is the convenience, as a new customer can set up an account and play in a matter of minutes and from the comfort of their own home. All you need is a computer, Internet access and a debit or credit card.

However whilst the convenience of Internet gambling has been central to its success story, it is also brings with it new concerns especially with regards to underage play. Blocking underage play within the terrestrial gambling industry is very easy in practice as all it requires is visual identification, regarding how old an individual looks and a request for ID for any suspected minor. However verifying age on the Internet is much harder as straight away you lose the ability of visual identification.

GamCare Conference 2004 - comments, speeches and photos from the day
Sharing strongly in the Government commitment to protect children and the vulnerable this year the GamCare Conference focused on the theme of 'prevention in preference to cure' and also explored the consequences of the new Gambling Bill.

GamCare Conference 2004 photos

June 2004

Government release details of the new Gambling Bill
The Government has released details of the new gambling laws, which include tougher measures to protect young people. The proposals due to become law in 2006 include a ban on fruit machines in unlicensed premises such as chip shops and cafes, the adherence to social responsibility codes of practice as a license condition and a three yearly prevalence study to monitor the impact of the new law.

May 2004

Australian ID card scheme attempts to curb problem gambling
Australian poker machine players will be required to register for a smart card under a bold plan to curb problem gambling.
Read more

GamCare Annual Conference 2004 - Prevention in Preference to Cure
At GamCare we continue to promote the need for development and progression in the field of social responsibility. Working closely with industry and educating young people and adults we keep a close eye on the changing shape of gambling in the UK. Sharing strongly in the Government commitment to protect children and the vulnerable this year the GamCare Conference will focus on the theme of 'prevention in preference to cure' and will also explore the consequences of the new Gambling Bill.

Man sells daughter to pay gambling debts
A British father who has sold his 15-year-old daughter for £15,000 to pay off his gambling debts is being investigated by police.

April 2004

'Gamblers are damaged by their habit'
Campaigners are warning that changes to gambling laws could leave more people at risk of addiction - and the mental health problems it causes.
Read more

Gambling Bill Scrutiny Committee publish findings
The Joint Committee on the Draft Gambling Bill released their findings today.

GamCare issue response to Scrutiny Committee Report
After the release of the Scrutiny Committee report GamCare has released it's response to the findings.

Bookmakers expect biggest weekend of gambling ever
With the Grand National, two FA Cup matches and Test cricket all this weekend it is anticipated that some £200 million will be staked by gamblers.

March 2004

BACTA commision new report into problem gambling
A report commisioned by BACTA suggests new gambling legislation could harm pubs, arcades and bingo halls and may lead to a rise in the number of problem gamblers.

February 2004

The Brit School plays a part
With filming nearly completed the GamCare project to produce 4 new videos moves to the editing room.

January 2004

Psychologists in Cambridge investigate brain mechanisms of gambling
Researchers at the University of Cambridge are currently seeking volunteers who gamble for a study on impulse control.

Place your bets on the big birds
Efforts to help endangered albatrosses are being boosted through collaboration between birdlovers and a big bookmaker.

All change at the top for GamCare
GamCare have announced the new management structure to lead GamCare forward since the departure of Paul Bellringer.

November 2003

Rising debts led 19-year-old man to hang himself
A 19-year-old man who had run up thousands of pounds of gambling debts hung himself at his Newport Pagnell home.

The major sections of a new Gambling Bill were published today.
The major sections of a new Gambling Bill were published today in draft. In a speech to the Business in Sport and Leisure (BISL) annual conference, Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell explained the tough new measures in the Bill that would strengthen protections for children and vulnerable adults.

GamCare/IGGBA launch new Code of Conduct
GamCare and IGGBA (The Interactive Gaming, Gambling and Betting Association) have launched a new code of conduct to address social responsibility best practice on the Internet.

Students turn to gambling
There are concerns that students in the North East of England are increasingly using gambling to try to pay off their debts.
Read more

Muslim fear on gambling
Muslim leaders worried about the growing number of casinos in Birmingham are bidding for charity cash to help those who become addicted to gambling. Read more

October 2003

Youth Offending Team seeks GamCare support
GamCare were invited recently to meet with Blackpool Youth Offending Team who have identified that 20% of the young offenders they work with admit to suffering through gambling dependency.

Commander Brian Paddick visits GamCare
Commander Brian Paddick of the Metropolitan Police took time out from his busy schedule to visit the GamCare offices.

September 2003

Sky to produce new GamCare Education videos
In a further display of their continued support for GamCare's youth education projects, Sky have agreed to fund and produce four new videos.

August 2003

Gambling addicts show “distinctive brain activity”
Pathological male gamblers display unique brain activities when considering betting scenarios, such as card games or rolling dice at a casino, according to US research. Read more