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Read Full BioGambleAware has launched a new mobile app, GambleAware Support Tool, designed to offer support for users to reduce or stop gambling.
GambleAware’s 2023 Audience Segmentation Report indicated that around 4.5 million UK adults want to reduce or stop gambling, with 93% of individuals preferring informal self-guided methods of support.
In a statement on its website, GambleAware states: “The app, which offers free and anonymous support to those looking to quit or reduce their gambling, is designed to prevent the escalation of gambling harm, and allows users to set their personal goals.”
The app includes features like activity tracking, goal-setting, motivational reminders, podcasts, educational content, and referral options.
App Aimed At Young Adults
The app is primarily aimed at young adults, with the 2024 Treatment and Support Survey released by GambleAware showing that they suffer from gambling problems at double the rate of the general population.
The survey reported that 29% of 18-24-year-olds who gamble want to reduce or quit, compared to 15% of all respondents.
Alexia Clifford, Chief Communications Officer for GambleAware, indicated that there is an increased risk of problem gambling in the digital age due to having a “casino in our pocket”.
Clifford commented: “Whether individuals want to reduce, manage, or stay gamble-free, the GambleAware Support Tool is here every step of your journey.”
“The digital age means we essentially have a casino in our pocket, and we know increased accessibility leads to increased participation and therefore increased risk of harm.”
The organization reported a 10% rise in individuals accessing the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN) last year, compared to the previous year.
“These harms are a growing public health issue, but early intervention is key, and the GambleAware Support Tool app is designed to give people a timely insight into their gambling, with the aim of supporting their journey to reducing or quitting their activity.”
Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines Central to the App
The app has been developed in accordance with the Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines (LRGG), which were created by academic experts in gambling worldwide.
As stated by GambleAware: “The LRGG highlight three limits that should be followed if an individual wants to keep gambling, but reduce many of the risks that come with it:
- Gamble no more than 1% of your income
- Gamble on no more than four days per month
- Avoid more than two types of gambling per month.”
The GambleAware Support Tool is the only available app in the UK that uses the LRGG to suggest limits for users to reduce their gambling.
Lived Experience Council Voice Support
Catherine Adams, a member of the GambleAware Lived Experience Council, believes the app will be invaluable to individuals who suffer from the same problems as she once did.
The Lived Experience Council (LEC) is made up of a variety of people whose lives have been impacted by gambling harm.
Adams said that “I would be gambling on the computer from six in the evening until six in the morning, and I just was not sleeping.”
By reminding users of their progress, Adams thinks the app will be of great benefit to users.
She stated: “It’s positive being able to monitor your progress yourself and to see how well you’re doing in reducing or quitting your gambling if you’re goal-oriented. To see ‘I’ve done this many days now ‘or ‘I’ve saved this much money, I think it really does give variety of choice in your recovery.”
