NHS Gambling Clinics and How to Get Referred
For many years, support for gambling addiction in the UK came mainly from charities and independent organisations. In recent years the NHS has taken a growing role, with specialist gambling clinics opening in several parts of England. For someone considering treatment, understanding what the NHS offers and how to access it can make the first step less daunting.
What the NHS offers
NHS gambling services are designed for people whose gambling is causing significant harm. They typically provide specialist assessment and structured treatment delivered by clinicians with experience in addiction and mental health. Treatment commonly includes psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, and may include support for related issues such as anxiety, depression or substance use.
Availability varies. Specialist clinics are not yet present in every area, and eligibility criteria, waiting times and referral routes differ between services. The NHS website and a GP can show what is available locally.
Routes into treatment
Route | How it works | Good to know |
GP referral | Speak to your GP, who can discuss your situation and refer you to a local or specialist service | A good starting point, especially if you also have mental health concerns |
Self-referral | Some NHS gambling services accept direct applications | Check the service’s website for eligibility and how to apply |
Referral from another service | A charity or other treatment provider may refer you onwards | Useful if you have already been in contact with a support service |
Mental health services | If you are already in contact with mental health teams, they can raise gambling with you and refer | Helpful where gambling and other conditions overlap |
Preparing for a conversation with a GP
Many people feel nervous raising gambling with a doctor. It can help to remember that GPs are used to discussing sensitive subjects, and that your conversation is confidential. Some points that can make the discussion easier:
- Describe how gambling is affecting you, not just how much you gamble: sleep, mood, work, relationships and money.
- Mention any other issues such as anxiety, low mood or alcohol use, since these often interact with gambling.
- Be as honest as you can about how long it has been going on and what you have tried already.
- If it is easier, write down your main points beforehand.
What assessment usually involves
An assessment is typically a conversation about your gambling history, current patterns, finances, mental health and personal circumstances. It is not a test you can fail. The aim is to understand what is happening and to match you with the most suitable type of support. Some people are offered one-to-one therapy, some group-based programmes, and some a combination of treatments alongside practical help with debts and self-exclusion.
Medication
There is no single medication approved specifically as a standard treatment for gambling disorder. In some cases, clinicians may treat related conditions such as depression or anxiety with medication, and may review any existing medicines that could contribute to impulsive behaviour. These decisions are made individually between a patient and their clinician.
While you wait
Waiting lists can be a source of frustration, and gambling harm does not pause while you wait. There are steps you can take in the meantime:
- Register with GamStop and set up gambling blocks with your bank.
- Contact a free debt advice service such as StepChange or National Debtline.
- Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, which is free and open 24 hours a day, for support and signposting.
- Consider joining a peer support group in person or online.
Support for the people around you
Gambling harm affects partners, parents, children and friends as well as the person gambling. Some NHS and charity services involve family members in treatment where the person agrees, and offer separate support for affected others. If you are worried about a loved one, it is worth asking about this when you speak to a GP or helpline. Having your own support does not depend on the other person seeking treatment first, and it can make a difficult period easier to manage.
Other types of support
The NHS is one route among several. Charities such as GamCare and others provide free counselling and treatment, often with shorter waiting times, and some people use both. Choosing one route does not rule out another.
Seeking referral can feel like a big step, but it is also one of the most effective. Treatment for gambling disorder works for many people, and an assessment is simply the starting point.