Publish date: 16 January 2025
Access to the South West Gambling Service has never been easier with residents now able to refer online at a time convenient to them.
The South West Gambling Service is run by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust and provides specialist therapy for people affected by the harmful impacts of gambling. This includes a range of interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It supports people across the South West and works in partnership with Mental Health Matters, H2CD, Togetherall, Dr Julian and Intuitive Thinking Skills.
Chris Gillmore, Clinical Lead for the South West Gambling Service said: “Sadly, there is still a lot of stigma associated with addictions, which can prevent some people from seeking help. By being able to self-refer online we hope we have made accessing our service even easier, and encourage people to come forward and get the help they need.”
It's thought that over 130,000 people across the UK could be experiencing problems due to gambling according to Gambling Commission figures, with around 1.3 million people engaging in either moderate or low-risk gambling – although other research estimates that this figure could be higher.
If you or someone you care about is affected by gambling, visit www.awp.nhs.uk/our-services/az-services/south-west-gambling-service to find out more, or to complete the new self-referral form. Alternatively you can refer yourself by calling 0330 022 3175.
