The stories shared on this website are emotive and as we all come with our own experiences and emotions, these can impact us in different ways. If you feel affected by any of the topics discussed, we encourage you to seek support by talking to a trusted person (such as a friend, family or colleague) about how you are feeling.
If you require additional or professional support, we have highlighted key information and support below. Please note this is not an exhaustive list and there may be other supports available.
Where to find support for yourself
Gamblers Anonymous Scotland -a 24-hour helpline you can phone on 0370 050 8881.
If you’re looking for ways to stop yourself from gambling, GAMSTOP allows you to block your access to certain gambling websites and apps. The Gambling Commission has information on safer gambling Safer Gambling (gamblingcommission.gov.uk)
Citizen’s Advice Scotland – Get help with gambling problems – Citizens Advice
Where to find support for others
If you have a loved one with a gambling problem, support is available from Gam-Anon Scotland. The organisation has supportive, confidential meetings that are separate from Gamblers Anonymous meetings. You can phone the Gam-Anon 24-hour helpline on 0370 050 8881.
GamCare provides information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. It operates the National Gambling Helpline, and provides treatment for problem gamblers and their families. You can phone the Helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on 0808 8020 133.
If you’re looking for help educating a young person about gambling, or need educational materials for a class or youth group, the Fast Forward Gambling Education Hub has some useful resources.
The Mental Health Foundation provides advice and support Gambling and mental health | Mental Health Foundation
If you require immediate support, please contact your GP, NHS 24 or call 999 in an emergency.
NHS 24: NHS 24 provides comprehensive up-to-date health information and self-care advice for people in Scotland. They can be contacted for advice and information when a GP service is unavailable. Call for free on 111 or visit the website here
The Samaritans: offer emotional support 24 hours a day – you can call them for free on 116 123. This number is free to call from landlines, mobiles and payphones. Visit The Samaritans website here
Childline: Childline offers a free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything – online, on the phone, anytime. Freephone 0800 1111 (24 hours), use their online chat by clicking here, access their message boards by clicking here or visit their website here
Breathing Space: Need help now? Call 0800 83 85 87, 24 hours at weekends (6pm Friday – 6am Monday). 6pm to 2am on weekdays (Monday – Thursday). Visit the website by clicking here
If you are looking for reliable health information:
NHS Inform and the NHS Inform Service Directory offer a wide range of health information on various issues (including those highlighted within these stories) and details on where you can access support.
Visit the NHS Inform website by clicking here
Visit the NHS Inform Service Directory by clicking here
You can also find services and support near you using the Glasgow Helps directory. Visit the website by clicking here