GamCare reports record Gambling Helpline referrals

January 2026 saw record numbers of people contacting the National Gambling Helpline being referred into treatment and peer-based support.

GamCare’s data highlighted the following:

• 996 referrals were made in January 2026 compared to 674 in January 2025.

These figures show a 48% year-on-year increase. There is a clear and sustained demand for gambling harm support across the country.

What happened after referral?

Of the total referrals, 742 were directed into formal treatment services. That figure compares to 603 treatment referrals in January last year. The remaining referrals were made to peer-based support programmes, including Money Guidance Service and Way Forward.

Only three months in the past five years have recorded higher referral numbers:

• 1,165 referrals in October 2025.
• 1,022 in September 2025
• 1,077 in August 2025.

All three occurred within the last year.

A faster change from help-seeking to treatment

GamCare said the proportion of target calls converting into treatment has increased markedly. Callers appear more ready to engage in structured support at the point of contact. Referral pathways are also operating more efficiently.

The average number of referrals per client continues to rise:

• 1.1 in 2023–24
• 1.2 in 2024–25
• 1.3 in 2025–26

“More people affected by gambling harms are choosing to start treatment. The National Gambling Helpline is a 24/7, confidential route to support, and our advisers rapidly connect people with free, specialist help across Great Britain. That first conversation remains the crucial turning point.” – Victoria Corbishley, CEO of GamCare.

The National Gambling Helpline is the most common route into treatment.

Who is GamCare?

GamCare is a leading UK charity. They provide information, advice and treatment for anyone experiencing gambling harm. GamCare knows how gambling harm affects individuals, families and communities and works within a public health framework.

When people contact GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline, they can access structured treatment programmes. One-to-one counselling, group therapy and peer support are all available.

As well as direct support services, GamCare also runs prevention programmes and training initiatives aimed at reducing risk and improving early intervention.

Public health approach to gambling harm

Gambling harm is associated with other issues like financial hardship, relationship breakdown and mental health challenges. Dealing with gambling needs to be public health led.

Public health reviews have consistently shown how important it is to work on prevention and provide timely support. To reduce long-term harm, it is vital to improve how people go from calling the helping to receiving treatment.

The National Gambling Helpline is free and confidential 24/7. Anyone can phone 0808 8020 133 or use live chat.