The NHS is to open its first clinic for young gambling addicts. There is a rise in concern of online gaming sites and targeted adverts addicting young people.
The National Problem Gambling Clinic will offer support to people ages 13 to 25. It is part of a increase of support for those who have a gambling addiction, it was announced in the NHS long term plan which will see 14 clinics open around England.
In Britain there are 55,000 children who are classed as having a gambling problem according to the Gambling Commision. It also found that 450,000 are gambling regularly.
Simon Stevens, the NHS England chief executive, said: “This action shows just how seriously the NHS takes the threat of gambling addiction, even in young people.
“The links between problem gambling and stress, depression and mental health problems are growing and there are too many stories of lives lost and families destroyed.”
Hundreds of thousands of people in England have a serious problem with gambling and 2 million additional people are at risk of developing a disorder.
Claire Murdoch, NHS England’s national director for mental health said: “This has the potential to be a major turning point and it is all about making sure the NHS does everything it can to help people of all ages, who are seriously addicted to gambling. There is already a big push to transform mental health services across the board for children and young people and the specific focus on gambling related addiction is the logical next step, particularly given the explosion of online gambling.”
The clinics will offer face to face NHS treatment for gambling addiction, this type of support has only been made available in London but now with the clinics it will be more available across the country.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “I have seen first-hand the devastating impact gambling addiction can have on people’s lives and I am determined to do everything I can to help anyone affected get the help and support they need.
“We know too many young people face their lives being blighted by problem gambling – so these new clinics will also look at what more can be done to help them.
“These new specialist services, delivered as part of our NHS Long Term Plan, demonstrate the Government’s commitment to tackle the danger problem gambling can pose and my determination to ensure society’s most vulnerable are protected.”
Betting firms could be taxed so they pay for the addiction treatment.
