Gambling Harms

Gambling can be a source of enjoyment for some people, but for others it can lead to serious harm. Gambling harms are not just about money. They can affect mental health, relationships, work, housing and overall wellbeing. They can also impact partners, children, family members and friends.

At Wirral Ways, we recognise gambling harms as a public health issue. Support is available whether you are worried about your own gambling, or about someone you care about.

Understanding Gambling Harms

Gambling harms can develop gradually and are not always easy to spot. You do not need to gamble every day, or spend large amounts of money, for harm to be present.

Gambling harms may include:

  • Spending more money or time gambling than planned

  • Chasing losses or borrowing money to gamble

  • Feeling anxious, low or stressed because of gambling

  • Hiding gambling from others or lying about money

  • Problems with relationships, work or education

  • Using gambling to cope with difficult feelings

  • Debt, rent arrears or wider financial difficulties

Harm can also affect people close to the person gambling, including increased stress, financial pressure, emotional distress and relationship breakdown.

If gambling is affecting any part of life, support can help.

Who Is Affected?

Gambling harms can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or income. Online gambling, betting apps and in-game gambling features mean access is easier and more constant than ever.

People may be more at risk during times of stress, isolation or change, such as relationship difficulties, bereavement, financial pressure or mental health challenges.

Recognising harm early and accessing support can make a real difference.

Support Available

Wirral Ways works in partnership with Beacon Counselling Trust, a specialist organisation providing free, confidential support for people affected by gambling harms across the North West.

Support through Beacon Counselling Trust includes:

  • One-to-one counselling, delivered face-to-face, online or by phone

  • Support for partners, family members and friends affected by gambling

  • Help to understand triggers, manage urges and rebuild control

  • Longer-term recovery support and signposting to peer and community options

Support is available whether you are ready to make changes now or just want to talk things through.

Click Here to Get Support from the Beacon Gambling Trust

Referrals Through Wirral Ways

We can make a referral on your behalf to Beacon Counselling Trust.

If you contact Wirral Ways, we can:

  • Talk through what support might be helpful for you

  • Make a referral with your consent

  • Support you alongside other drug, alcohol or wellbeing needs

You can also choose to self-refer directly if you prefer. All support is free and confidential.

Hear From Beacon Counselling Trust

You may find it helpful to hear directly from Beacon Counselling Trust about gambling harms and the support they offer.

Additional Support

Alongside support from Wirral Ways and Beacon Counselling Trust, there are other trusted services that can offer advice, tools and immediate help.

National Gambling Helpline

The National Gambling Helpline, run by GamCare, offers free, confidential advice and support for anyone affected by gambling harms.

  • 📞 0808 8020 133 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

  • 💬 Live chat and online support available

  • 📍 Information about local services and self-help tools

Support is available for people who gamble, as well as family members and friends.

GamCare Online Support

GamCare also provides a wide range of online tools and resources, including:

  • Self-assessment tools to help you understand your gambling

  • Guided self-help programmes you can complete at your own pace

  • Moderated online forums offering peer support

These can be helpful if you are not ready to speak to someone yet or want additional support alongside counselling.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous is a free, confidential peer-support fellowship for people who want to stop gambling.

GA offers:

  • Face-to-face meetings across the UK

  • Online and telephone meetings

  • Peer support from people with lived experience

  • Ongoing, long-term recovery support

No referral is needed, and there is no cost to attend. Gamblers Anonymous can be accessed on its own or alongside professional support.

GambleAware

GambleAware is an independent UK charity providing free information, advice and tools to help people understand and reduce gambling harms.

GambleAware offers:

  • Self-assessment and self-help tools to help you reflect on your gambling

  • Clear advice on recognising risks and taking steps to stay in control

  • A service finder to help you access free, confidential support in your area

GambleAware can be a helpful first step if you’re unsure whether gambling is becoming a problem, or if you want practical tools alongside other support.

NHS Support

The NHS provides information about gambling harms, mental health support and access to specialist gambling clinics for people who need more intensive help.

Your GP can also support with:

  • Referrals to specialist services

  • Help with anxiety, stress or low mood linked to gambling

  • Advice around sleep, medication and overall wellbeing

Money and Debt Support

If gambling has caused financial pressure, free and confidential debt advice is available:

  • StepChange – practical debt advice and repayment support

  • Citizens Advice – help with money, benefits, housing and employment issues

Addressing money worries can reduce stress and make recovery feel more manageable.

Last Updated on 26 January 2026