Help for those affected by gambling harms
Barnet is part of a new coalition of health partners and local councils which has secured £250,000 to reduce the devastating impact of gambling harms across North Central London (NCL).
The NCL Tackling Gambling Harms Coalition is led by Mind in Haringey, and brings together the boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington. This two-year project is designed to provide a co-ordinated response to what is now recognised as a public health concern.
Harmful gambling is a complex problem and has a profound impact on the region. Adults experiencing gambling harms are at least twice as likely to consider or die by suicide.
In the five boroughs, the estimated cost is £54.5 million every year - for example, for healthcare costs and the impact on affected families and local communities.
Key activities include expanding a successful screening tool to help staff in councils, the NHS and community groups spot the signs of gambling harms early. The coalition will also launch a campaign during this summer's FIFA World Cup to highlight the risks of gambling products and the tactics used by the industry.
Work will focus on those most at risk, including men aged 18 to 40 and families and young people in areas of higher deprivation who are often targeted by gambling companies. Partners will also share best practices to challenge the opening of new gambling premises in vulnerable neighbourhoods.
Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of Barnet Council, said: "Gambling harm is often a hidden driver of financial crisis. This partnership will help our frontline teams identify people who are struggling with gambling-related debt much earlier, allowing us to offer the financial and emotional support they need to rebuild their lives."
For more information, and for details of support services available, please visit the NHS website.