Gamcare - the British authority that provides help, support and counselling services to problem gamblers; has started 2008 in a new office in a central location in South London.

Gamcare has been providing support to problem gamblers for 10 years and felt it was time to update its brand and associated literature as well as the office move.  The new literature includes newly designed leaflets and posters for gambling firms to put up on their premises as well as crisply designed leaflets for callers to the GamCare Helpline (0845 6000 133).  The rebranding has also included a refreshed new look for its logo.

GamCare will continue to deal professionally to callers of the GamCare Helpline with highly trained Helpline advisors and leaflets will be sent to callers.  These Helpline leaflets contain information on Dealing with Debt, A Guide to Help and Support for Problem Gamblers, A Guide to Remote Gambling, A Guide to Help and Support for Women Gamblers and A Guide for Family and Friends of Problem Gamblers.  The leaflets also include contact details of relevant agencies outside of GamCare; which can provide specific support to problem gamblers based on their circumstances.

As part of the Gambling Act, which came into law last September, all gaming operators have to display leaflets and posters about the services provided by GamCare and how problem gamblers may identify their gambling problem and that of a friend or relative.  For gaming operators that don’t produce their own literature, GamCare have made new leaflets and posters available to them.  Firms can buy the literature by calling GamCare’s Head Office on 020 7801 7000.

GamCare’s rebranding has also extended to its website.  The new identity is reflected in its new website (www.gamcare.org.uk).  In addition to its Helpline, GamCare also offers support for problem gamblers online.  This support includes emotional support, advice, information and referral for people who have problems with their gambling as well as family and friends affected by gambling.  It also contains a Netline, which is an Internet-based helpline, which can be found at www.gamcare.co.uk/netline and an online peer to peer support forum for members.  On top of this, GamCare will be launching an Internet-based one on one counselling service around April time.

Chief Executive of GamCare, Geoffrey Godbold, said, “2007 was an eventful year, culminating in our move to new premises at the end of the year.  Our new offices and suite of counselling rooms will enable us to continue to expand vital services we offer to problem gamblers and their friends and relatives.  Easily accessible, the Clapham premises have been designed to enable us to absorb a significant uplift in Helpline, Netline and counselling activity.”