If you believe that a friend or family member is having problems with gambling, or you are affected in some way by these issues it will naturally be a very worrying time for you. There is valuable advice on the begambelaware.com website with very good advice for friends and family to someone who has a gambling problem .
For information help on how to start a conversation with a problem gambler, you can click this link.
In addition to advice on how to talk to someone with a gambling problem there are also several agencies and support groups available that offer additional support.
GamCare
GamCare offers support with gambling problems and can be reached 24 hours a day via phone on 0808 8020 133 or chat. They are able to support with free counselling and can put you in touch with support groups. GamCare also offer a dedicated chat room for friends and family once a week. GamCare can also offer advice on do’s and don’ts when impacted by someone with gambling problems.
GamAnon (sister organisation of Gamblers Anonymous)
GamAnon runs support meetings for anyone who has been affected by a loved one’s gambling problem and by sharing in these meetings those involved will find that they are not alone. The schedule of both in person and online meetings can be found on the GamAnon website.
Gordon Moody Association
Gordon Moody’s service is geared towards providing a friendly, inclusive service for those who are experiencing gambling-related harm from someone close to you. Their service delivery is centred around the social, physical, and financial impact problem gambling has on families and impacted others. Their online weekly meetings are an integral part of the service offered to families and others. Sharing concerns with others has proven extremely helpful in eliminating isolation, embarrassment and understanding the consequences of having a close relationship with a problem gambler.
Gordon Moody also offers the free Gambling Therapy app, which has features like a self-assessment questionnaire, mindfulness and self-help exercises or links to blocking software