Key Moments:
- NHS Wales will introduce its first dedicated gambling treatment service and a national helpline starting 1 April 2026.
- The new program will integrate support into mainstream healthcare, providing direct NHS clinical care for individuals and families affected by gambling harm.
- Funding of £1.3 million annually has been designated to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board from the UK statutory gambling levy to manage the initiative.
Launch of Wales’ Specialist Gambling Treatment Services
On 1 April 2026, NHS Wales will launch its inaugural specialist gambling treatment service alongside a new national helpline, providing direct access to clinical care for individuals and families contending with gambling-related challenges. This development marks the first time the NHS in Wales will embed dedicated gambling harm support into its healthcare framework, offering an evidence-based, preventive, and continuous care pathway.
Introducing the Wales Gambling Helpline
As a central element of this initiative, the Wales Gambling Helpline will offer a confidential resource for individuals experiencing crisis or concern related to gambling. Support will also be extended to friends, family, and partners affected by gambling harm. The helpline will deliver clear information, emotional support, practical advice, and facilitate direct referrals to specialized therapy.
NHS Wales leadership emphasizes that, while regulated gambling options operate under strict guidelines, accessible treatment and prevention resources are crucial for those impacted by gambling harm.
Details of the Specialist Program
The treatment program will enable individuals to connect with clinical care through secure digital channels, making support accessible remotely and reducing barriers such as travel or reluctance for face-to-face interactions. This structure is aimed at reaching residents in rural areas or those who prefer private engagement.
Services offered will encompass the full spectrum, from initial referral and triage through to structured therapy and long-term aftercare, with a strong focus on continuity for ongoing recovery.
Guidance and Oversight
Sarah Murphy, Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, states that prevention holds equal importance to therapy within the mental health strategy. Dr Faye Graver observes that the service closes a gap in specialist care, responding to research indicating a significant demand for such support in Wales.
GamCare CEO Victoria Corbishley welcomed the new helpline, noting: “The shared priority is ensuring anyone who reaches out receives fast, confidential, and effective support, with a focus on maintaining non-judgemental care for those affected by gambling harm.” She also underlined the need for clear and accessible services for vulnerable callers.
Transition from Charitable to NHS-Led Support
The final legacy report from GambleAware was issued following the announcement of the NHS Wales program. The shift from a charity-funded model to a publicly funded national framework indicates a commitment to making specialized gambling treatment an integral part of public healthcare.
| Funding Source | Annual Allocation | Managing Organization | Year Levy Introduced |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Statutory Gambling Levy | £1.3 million | Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board | April 2025 |
Operations and Integration within NHS Wales
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will oversee all daily activities for the helpline and related clinical services, leveraging its experience managing national support lines like DAN 24/7 and the CALL Mental Health Helpline. This experience enables the board to run high-demand support lines and offer consistent care across Wales.
Incorporating gambling harm treatment into NHS Wales’ healthcare system will lead to streamlined access, allowing for joined-up records and referrals, and minimizing the repetition of personal histories for patients. NHS Wales Performance and Improvement will maintain oversight, ensuring high and consistent standards of care countrywide.
- Author
Daniel Williams
