GamCare helping record numbers of vulnerable players
GamCare is the UK’s most important problem gambling helpline. They’ve announced a record number of referrals for January. It may sound like bad news and problem gambling is on the rise. But it’s not as simple as that…
If you’ve read any of our reviews, you’ll know we have a section under the “Details” tab about a brand’s Safer Gambling Provision. What does that mean?
We try and give players a flavour of how seriously a brand takes its safer gambling commitments, how many tools and statistics they provide, and any other useful pieces of advice they offer up. Sometimes, a casino will have a multimedia page that goes in depth into every option available players, while also giving a strong sense of ethos and responsibility to their players. Some will just have a glorified terms and conditions page where you need a magnifying glass to work out what’s going on.
What unites every brand’s safer gambling page is the contact information for GamCare. This is because it’s generally understood to be the most important first port of call for players who need help and support.
How many people are referring themselves to GamCare?
These numbers are going up all the time. In January 2026, there was a 48% year on year increase in the number of people seeking help at 996. Three of the other highest months occurred in the back-end of 2025, which all points to an increasing trend.
Now, you’re first thought might be, isn’t this a bad thing? Doesn’t this reflect a growing problem that’s getting out of hand? Are the numbers of problem gamblers going up and everything is getting worse.
The GamCare team don’t think so.
In fact, research from the Gambling Commission suggests that problem gambler numbers and those at risk of developing a problem is staying quite stable, at a low level in the population.
Therefore, it seems that a greater percentage of those who need help are getting it! More people than ever are willing and able to seek treatment, which can only be a good thing.
GamCare’s CEO, Victoria Corbishley, said of the numbers:
“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.”
Society is catching up
Awareness of problem gambling is increasing and therefore self-reflection is increasing. GamCare have even started television advertising campaigns that you may have already seen if you live in London or Scotland.
There is also less stigma attached to seeking support in society today, and public discussions around mental health are much more prevalent.
Additionally, it has never been easier to contact GamCare. If you have long working hours, you can now do it any time. If you don’t like speaking on the telephone because you find it anxiety inducing, you can send a confidential WhatsApp message instead.
It doesn’t matter how and when you get in touch, it just matters that you can.
We understand that a fun and thriving gambling industry has to be built on a safe and protected environment. Many brands are doing their bit and the Gambling Commission is introducing important measures to protect people, such as affordability checks and behaviour pattern analysis.
GamCare is perhaps the last and most crucial safety net, where anyone in a time of need can get in touch and seek treatment.
Here’s to the great work they do!
How to contact GamCare
- Telephone – 0808 8020 133 (Speak to an advisor 24 hours a day and 7 days a week)
- Live Chat on the website
- WhatsApp (Same number)
- Online Community and chap groups
- Email – [email protected]
- Find a local advisor – through the contact methods, they will put you in touch with someone who lives nearby.