New year support for Walsall residents experiencing gambling harms
Walsall Council offers support for residents struggling with gambling harms, with resources including self-help tools and access to treatment services.Summary
The new year can be particularly difficult for individuals experiencing gambling harms, financial difficulties, and mental health challenges. Local data indicates over 13,000 adults in Walsall are directly affected by gambling, with the potential for up to six times that number impacted when considering family and friends. The Gambling Commission reports that incentives and advertising significantly contribute to increased gambling, especially among young people. Walsall Council provides a directory of support resources, recommending tools like TalkBanStop, online resources like Chapter ONE, and access to specialist treatment through the West Midlands NHS Gambling Support Clinic. Councillor Gary Flint emphasized that gambling harms are often hidden and affect not only individuals but also their loved ones, assuring residents that help is available and recovery is possible. Individuals struggling with gambling can also access urgent mental health support via NHS 111 or Samaritans.
(Source：Express & Star)