GamCare to Launch CJS Chatroom on July 7

GamCare has extended its online chatroom series to help people in contact with the Criminal Justice System (CJS) retain problem gambling assistance and receive advice from its dedicated specialist teams.

The new CJS chatroom will be launched on July 7. GamCare currently runs a weekly programme of hour-long online chatroom sessions, where people can freely discuss or live text issues related to problem gambling.

Eartha Heptinstall, CJS Project Officer at GamCare, who heads the directive said: “We know that there is generally a higher number of people affected by gambling harms within the CJS than in the general population.

“Studies have also indicated that the more complex, prolonged and persistent a gambling problem is, the more likely it is that a crime will be committed and, indeed, that many crimes may result. If a gambling problem remains unaddressed, rehabilitative work in other areas of an individual’s life is not likely to be successful.

“GamCare and our partners provide a range of support across the CJS, and we’re running this chatroom to give those in contact with the CJS a safe space to connect with one another and to seek specific advice if they have burning questions they may not be able to address anywhere else. GamCare chatrooms are confidential spaces and can provide a vital channel for peer support in recovery, and our team are also on hand to give additional advice if needed.”