GambleAware to offer peer support for those experiencing gambling harm in 2024

People seeking gambling harm support through GambleAware will soon be able to consult with those with lived experience, thanks to a new service adding to the suite of free support already offered including general and financial counselling, online chat as well as education and other resources.

The Office of Responsible Gambling has appointed The Australian Centre for Social Innovation (TACSI) to build the capacity of GambleAware providers to offer the Peer Support option from January 2024.

The Office of Responsible Gambling Director Alison Parkinson said peer support is a non-clinical option for people seeking help to address gambling harm and a key component of the stepped care approach of the GambleAware treatment and support model.

“This service will provide an additional option for people experiencing gambling harm, making sure that people across NSW can access support that meets their needs and circumstances,” Ms Parkinson said.

“The service will work with GambleAware providers so they are ready and able to offer peer support from early 2024. This will include helping them to recruit and train peer support workers.”

The service will build the capacity of our GambleAware providers to deliver safe and effective peer support services, as well as recruit and retain peer support workers in their local area.

Some key functions of this initiative include:

• Providing expert input to support the recruitment and retention of peer support workers
• Developing peer support resources for GambleAware providers
• Facilitating ongoing professional development and training for peer support workers to ensure they get the support and development opportunities they need to perform their roles safely and effectively.