Trial programme launched in Scotland to support gambling addicts

A pilot scheme has been initiated in the Scottish town of Aberdeen to support people addicted to gambling.

The GambleAware charity launched a £100,000 campaign to provide people with access to counselling and advice services.

Helpline details will be displayed on buses and there will be adverts on the radio and online websites.

Students will be made aware of problem gambling and how to get help.

It is estimated that about 230,000 Scots either have a problem with gambling or are at risk of becoming addicted.

The pilot scheme has been designed to see how far the GambleAware message can be spread ahead of a wider, national campaign launched in the new year.

Iain Corby, the charity’s deputy chief executive, said: “Only 2% of people with a gambling problem come forward for help.”

“We don’t know if that’s because they don’t know who to turn or, or if they’re just reluctant to.”

“So with this campaign we want to remove the chance that they don’t know how to get help.”

GambleAware offers a range of services for those concerned about their problem as well as their family and friends through fellow charity The RCA Trust.

Mr Corby added: “A lengthy telephone call can be enough to give someone the tips they need to get their gambling under control.”

“Others might prefer an online chat or face-to-face counselling and we can do this over a course of four to six weeks.

“We do offer a 13-week residential rehab programme if it is needed.”

Earlier this year Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart called for the maximum bet on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs) to be reduced from the “farcical” £100 to £2, highlighting the “tragic consequences” that can arise from gambling addictions.

Mr Stewart said: “I have been quite shocked at how many people have been affected by problem gambling, particularly focusing on people using FOBTs and online apps.”

“I’m very grateful to GambleAware and its other partners, and I’m extremely pleased this pilot is launching in the north-east.”