GambleAware launches new resources for neurodivergent people with gambling issues

The resources are based on the findings of new research into gambling harms and neurodivergence.

UK.- The gaming industry-backed charity GambleAware has released new tools designed to support therapists and practitioners working with people who experience gambling harms and neurodivergence. The move comes as new research shows that some neurodivergent people, such as those with ADHD or autism, may have an increased likelihood of experiencing gambling harms.

The resources commissioned by GambleAware have been designed to enable therapists and practitioners to improve the support they provide for clients, so that they can get tailored support. The resources, created by IFF Research and Ara Recovery for All, include training materials, toolkits, and case studies designed to build confidence, reduce barriers and promote inclusive support.  

They resources are based on a GambleAware-funded research project delivered in partnership with academics from the University of Bristol, which aimed to explore whether neurodivergent people face an increased risk of experiencing gambling harms. The study found that some neurodivergent people use gambling as a coping mechanism and face barriers, such as stigma, when it comes to accessing help and support.

Alongside the resources, the research published today outlines six key principles upon which gambling support and treatment approaches should be based in order to provide the best possible support for service users with neurodivergence:

• Understanding and adapting to the diversity of communication needs that neurodivergent people have.
• Ensuring clarity and simplicity in communications with neurodivergent people.
• Providing support in ways that promote the autonomy and independence of clients with neurodivergence.
• Providing support in an environment that considers the sensory needs of people with neurodivergence, such as reducing the risks of overstimulation.
• Promoting the use of self-directed approaches such as self-help tools, and informal support such as peer networks. 
• Making sure staff are trained in neurodiversity awareness and different communication methods.

GambleAware’s transition CEO Anna Hargrave said: “The new report highlights the complex link between neurodivergence and gambling. Characteristics of neurodivergence like impulsivity, hyperfocus, social difficulties, and a need for stimulation drive gambling behaviour and increase harms, while stigma, shame, and lack of tailored support further isolate neurodivergent people and make it harder for them to seek help.”

“The resources we have produced are designed to support therapists and practitioners working with clients who experience both gambling harms and neurodivergence. They address a critical evidence gap in understanding how gambling harms affect neurodivergent people and how treatment can be tailored most effectively to ensure it is as effective as possible.”

Call for urgent reform of gambling ad rules in the UK

Earlier this month, GambleAware published a report that calls for major reforms to the regulations for gambling ads in the UK. The study finds that children and young people are regularly exposed to gambling on online platforms and that the current rules for gambling marketing and content online “do not reflect the unique challenges presented by the digital age.”

The paper calls for the government to align online safety powers, increase action against online platforms and establish a government taskforce to explore targeted policies.

GambleAware will cease operations by March 2026 due to the implementation of a mandatory gambling levy in Britain. The funds from the new levy are administered by the Gambling Commission and the NHS, which replace GambleAware’s role as the steward of voluntary donations from the gambling industry.