The TalkBanStop initiative has been lauded by Ipsos for its impact in aiding people to stop or reduce their online gambling.
Following its first year as a pilot programme, Ipsos carried out research into TalkBankStop’s progress – reported by GamCare, one of the three organisations involved in the safer gambling programme alongside Gamban and GamStop.
The results showed that TalkBanStop, which the report stated has been installed 9,000 times since its inception, contributed to a “noticeable reduction” in gambling-related harm, with respondents claiming improvements in financial situations, enhanced relationships, overall wellbeing and performance at work.
Anna Hemmings, GamCare Chief Executive, said: “Since the TalkBanStop partnership started we’ve seen a huge value in pooling our tools and support together to help people stop gambling online.
“Throughout the pilot year we’ve seen how having all three of our interventions, layered together, have amplified the impact for individuals who need them most.”
Specifically, participants in the survey reported being in a better financial position after using TalkBanStop tools, with some stating that they had begun to make savings.
A key area of improvement was with regards to overall wellbeing such as better sleep, as other respondents reported a lack of distraction by gambling at work and better professional performance.
“Additionally, what we’ve heard from people is the value in using gambling transaction blocks offered by banks as an added layer of protection,” Hemmings continued.
“While the tools and support have been effective, the bank blocks are shown to go one step further in restricting payments in land-based gambling venues such as betting shops.
“Going forward, we hope to work with more financial services to highlight the positive impact that TalkBanStop can have.”
Launched initially as a 12 month pilot programme last year, TalkBanStop combines support from GamCare advisors, free access to Gamban blocking software and signposting to the GamStop self-exclusion scheme.
The organisations are currently overseeing a further expansion of the programme’s international remit, having secured funding from the UK Gambling Commission for another year of operations and launching a Spanish-language version of the service.
