New Gambling Treatment Service Launches in Wales on April 1

A new specialist gambling treatment service and helpline will begin operating in Wales from April 1, 2024. The Wales Gambling Helpline aims to provide vital information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling-related issues, including family members and friends of those struggling with addiction. This initiative reflects a significant step in addressing gambling harms across the region.

The helpline will offer treatment through a secure online platform, enabling remote access to resources and support. The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has received £1.3 million annually from the Welsh Government to manage the treatment service and helpline. This funding is derived from the UK-wide gambling levy established to support addiction treatment initiatives.

New Support Services for Gambling Addiction

Sarah Murphy, Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, described the launch of this service as a “landmark moment.” She noted that it marks the first time specialized gambling treatment and support services will be available through the NHS in Wales. “The helpline will be a form of open access support available to people who need it the most,” she added, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in mental health services.

The clinical lead for gambling treatment at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Dr. Faye Graver, stated that the helpline will provide essential support for individuals grappling with gambling addiction. “We are establishing a specialist gambling treatment service and the Wales Gambling Helpline to provide much-needed support for people struggling,” she explained. The service aims to assist not only those experiencing gambling-related harms but also their families and others affected by these challenges.

Research indicates that tens of thousands of people in Wales require support for gambling-related issues, and this new service will facilitate a comprehensive approach to treatment. The process will include referral, triage, and ongoing aftercare, ensuring individuals receive the help they need throughout their recovery journey.

Funding and Future Initiatives

The gambling industry levy, which came into effect in April 2025, raised approximately £120 million in its first year. To further support the implementation of this levy in Wales, the Welsh Government has appointed Public Health Wales as the lead prevention coordinator and NHS Wales Performance and Improvement as the lead treatment coordinator.

In conjunction with the helpline’s launch, Public Health Wales will introduce a grant scheme in April to foster initiatives aimed at gambling prevention. This multifaceted approach underscores the Welsh Government’s commitment to addressing gambling harms and supporting individuals and families affected by addiction.

The establishment of the Wales Gambling Helpline represents a critical advancement in mental health support services in the region. By providing accessible and tailored assistance, the Welsh Government aims to mitigate the impact of gambling-related harms on individuals and communities across Wales.