Problem gambling defined as endorsing at least some diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder, and having functional impairment is common, and associated with untoward outcomes including other mental health conditions, unemployment, and relationship breakups. At present, there are draft NICE guidelines open for consultation. Through secured NHS funding, we are establishing an exciting new regional treatment service for people with problem gambling. The service started to accept referrals from September 2022, initially covering the geographical area of Southampton for referrals, but then expanding with a view to providing coverage across the Southeast region as the service develops and expands.
The service will operate from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. However, an out of hours clinic is planned in the future one evening a week until 8pm. Therefore, the postholder will be expected to work outside of normal working hours as part of their role. Treatment options offered to patients would include treatment workshops, evidence-based psychological therapy, short and long term and pharmacotherapy.