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NatWest Join The War On Problem Gambling
By Shane Addinall Nov 04, 2019 IndustryCould banks be the ally we need to effectively combat problem gambling? A massive high-street lender is opening its doors to gamblers in need of private and discreet counselling by allowing GamCare to use their facilities and train their staff.In every area of life, there are those people whether through circumstance or genetics find themselves more prone than others to developing addictive behaviours. In these cases, the most effective tool in addressing the underlying issue is a human touch, having someone you can trust to discuss your problems with.
NatWest (National Westminster Bank), one of the UK’s largest retail and commercials banks, has partnered with GamCare to offer those in need of counselling a discreet meeting place – their high-street branches.
✓Safe Space To Seek Counsel
While GamCare and other programs do offer guidance and counselling to problem gamblers there is a stigma for some people around the idea of “going to counselling”. Whether from a lack of education on the issue or shame, addiction is often seen as a personal failure, which could not be farther from the truth.
NatWest have opened their doors to GamCare who will be setting up private consultation rooms in no less than thirteen of the bank’s branches. These locations, it is hoped, will offer a discreet option for those in need of guidance but who for whatever reason don’t feel ready to attend a support group.
NatWest's head of lending, Phil Sheehy said:
“Some might be uncomfortable going to an addiction centre. This is an accessible and neutral environment. We want to look at what we can do to help people who may be struggling with a gambling addiction, which can have a significant effect financially.”
These new resource centres can be found in Camden, Stratford, Lewisham, Ealing, Wood Green, Twickenham and Ilford in London, Margate in Kent and Haywards Heath in West Sussex. Most important of all they are not exclusive to NatWest clients. These counselling centres are open to the public!
✓Only Just The Beginning
GamCare will also be training up NatWest staff in how to reach out to and support bank clients who have been flagged as problem gamblers.
Mike Kenward, GamCare’s development director said:
“Banks are in a phenomenal position to support people affected by problem gambling. What people need when they’re trying to make a big change in their life is the tools to help them when their motivation is at its lowest.”
A major part of addressing these low moments will be the creation of a team of 600 specialists within the banking group who will be undergoing specific “vulnerability training”. This will give them the on-the-ground skills to help players when they need it most.
If this program is successful NatWest have stated their willingness to continue to it out to more of their 700 branches nation-wide.
✓Need Help Right This Moment?
It is encouraging to read about initiatives like this given that these businesses benefit from gambling, and as such have a responsibility to help those in need. As a client of NatWest, Monzo, Barclays and Starling you also have the ability to block gambling transactions through their respective banking apps, an action you can take right now to begin your journey.
If you’re reading this and recognise your need for assistance in this area please contact your nearest support organisation such as GamCare or BeGambleAware right away, they have trained staff waiting to assist you.
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