The number of people seeking help for gambling problems rose by more than 20 per cent last year, according to GamCare, the charity that provides support for compulsive gamblers. ‘Our advisers and counsellors have never been busier,’ said the organisation’s chief executive, Andy McLellan. ‘But we also know we are still only scratching the surface. The Gambling Commission’s review of research, education and treatment suggested that less than one per cent of people who could benefit from treatment actually take it up. There’s a lot more for us to do, and a lot more people out there that we need to help.’

Gamcare’s annual report shows that the number of calls rose from 41,862 to 50,788 over the course of a year. The number of counselling sessions went up by 30 per cent to 12,500.

The Guardian