Support through Citizens Advice Gateshead

Our partners at Citizens Advice Gateshead are well-versed in providing support and signposting to those who are experiencing gambling problems, and even focused on the topic in their #TeamGateshead staff bulletin all the way back in August 2022.

As well as signposting to useful sources of targeted support, advisors can also help you with some of the more practical fallout of problem gambling – such as impact on income or debts you may have accrued.

All colleagues can access this service (regardless of your location) and expect a response within 1 working day. To access the service, please call 0191 490 4231, leaving a voicemail if your call goes unanswered. Alternatively, you can also email an advisor on [email protected].

Local Support Offers

If you are experiencing a gambling problem, the best port of call is most likely the NHS Northern Gambling Service. Those who access the service may be able to access psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists and mental health nurses all of who are capable of delivering specialist addiction therapy. This is inclusive of 1-to-1 CBT and group sessions, and can be accessed both face-to-face and via Teams.

Anyone who lives in Gateshead, Newcastle, Sunderland, South Tyneside, North Tyneside or Northumberland can access the service by providing a contact number when emailing [email protected], calling 0300 1490 (providing a contact number if leaving a message) or through their referral form, downloadable here. The service aims to get back to you within one to three days.

Elsewhere, the NECA Gambling & Advice Service works in partnership with GambleAware and offers a range of free support for anyone affected by gambling, whether directly or indrectly. To access the service, call 0191 562 3309 or drop an email to [email protected], requesting their referral form.

Finally, if you feel as though you might benefit from a community of support, there are a range of Gamblers Anonymous meetings which take place throughout the north east. To view them, just visit their interactive map.

National Support Routes

There are a number of further routes of gambling support, including:

• GamCare: Providing support to anyone impacted by gambling, including a live chat function, WhatsApp chat line (020 3031 8881) and a 24/7 helpline 0808 8020 133.
• Gamble Aware: Offering free tailored and confidential help through a telephone helpline and live chat function, and helping those who have gambling problems to self-exclude.
• Chapter-One: Free and confidential support and help for anyone who is worried about their – or anyone else’s gambling.
• GamLearn: Offering a lived experience network for people that have been impacted both directly and indirectly from gambling related harm.