A new NHS gambling clinic has been opened in Sheffield, amid growing demand for the service.
The number of clinics available has almost doubled in England in the space of a year. There are already gambling services available in London, Milton Keynes, Thurrock, Bristol, Derby, Liverpool, Blackpool, Preston, Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester, Southampton, Stoke-on-Trent, and Telford. Seven of these opened within the last year.
It is expected up to 3,000 people a year will be treated in the 15 clinics. People can either self-enrol to a service or can be referred through GP teams.
The clinics will provide those visiting with specialist teams which include clinical psychologists, therapists, mental health practitioners, psychiatrists, and peer support.
The NHS national clinic opened in London in 2008, and treats patients over the age of 13.
NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard, said: “Gambling addiction is a cruel disease which has the power to destroy people’s lives, and as referrals continue to rapidly increase for these services, it is right that we increase the support available in line with demand.
"The opening of the new NHS gambling clinic is a significant milestone and amid record demand for help, it is timely for patients who desperately need this vital treatment.
"The £1billion gambling industry which operates 24/7 is becoming more addictive, and with mainstream sporting events driving increasing numbers to problem gambling, it’s now more important than ever that people have access to treatment that adapts to their healthcare needs.”
NHS mental health director Claire Murdoch said: “Gambling can have a debilitating impact on personal relationships, your finances and severely damage your mental wellbeing.
"Although progress has been made on clamping down on this billion-pound industry with the Government’s White Paper, I hope further action can be taken to protect our young people and future generations from being bombarded by gambling advertisement while watching sport.
"If you’re worried about your relationship with gambling, please come forward to our clinics by self-referral or speak to your GP practice.”
