A new service has been launched in Oxfordshire to take action on gambling harm.
According to Citizens Advice, almost half the adult population gambles, whether that’s buying a lottery ticket, playing bingo or placing a sports bet.
The GambleAware website shows a high prevalence of gambling harm particularly in the Oxford and Cherwell areas.
The new Gambling Support Service is being delivered by the four Citizens Advice services across Oxfordshire.
With the help and funding from GambleAware, Citizens Advice is building on its work in trying to normalise talking about gambling harms and reduce the shame and stigma that is associated with it.
Teresa Archer, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice West Oxfordshire, said: “We are concerned that during the cost of living crisis, more people might turn to gambling in the hope of paying off their debts.
“Thanks to the support of GambleAware, we are pleased to join Citizens Advice across the county to deliver this important service. We are also keen to build relationships with other organisations working within the gambling harms sector.
“We believe that sharing knowledge and best practice across organisations is key to enhancing the work that we all do to achieve our common goal: helping people affected by gambling harms.”
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