GamCare has revamped its ‘trained associate model’ to ensure that the best training is available for all stakeholders dealing with the treatment and support of problem gambling, regardless of national boundaries.
The Charity that operates the National Gambling Helpline outlined that a new training model was required as demand for gambling-related support had risen across Great Britain.
GamCare explained: “In 2020-2021 alone, over 10,000 people received treatment sessions through GamCare and calls to the National Gambling Helpline increased by 9% to over 41,000 calls.”
There are currently 161 treatment locations across England, Scotland and Wales. However, GamCare acknowledged that there people are experiencing gambling harms in many areas outside of Britain.
The Trained Associate model is a framework where British and non-British organisations are able to receive training from GamCare on how to deliver support for people experiencing gambling-related harms.
Training is delivered to organisations in-line with GamCare’s ‘Model of Care’ – its proven framework for treatment of gambling harms, that provides institutions with relevant skills and tools necessary to begin offering support themselves.
Isle of Man based substance misuse charity Motiv8 is the first recipient of the model. The charity, formerly the Isle of Man Alcohol Advisory Service, specialises in supporting people with issues around alcohol or drugs across the island, whether it’s impacting them or someone else.
Following training, Motiv8’s team is able to deliver clinical support for gambling as part of their support service, helping minimise gambling harms in the Isle of Man
Thea Ozenturk, Chief Executive Officer at Motiv8 said: “We are delighted to move to this new relationship with GamCare as it keeps Motiv8’s team at the forefront of delivering best practice interventions in the treatment of gambling disorder for the benefit of locally affected individuals and their families.”
Further information on the Trained Associate Model can be found on GamCare’s website.