Gambling addicts in Islington can now get help thanks to a £250,000 grant.
The money will fund a two-year scheme, lasting until December 2027. It is a holistic approach, targeting linked harms including health and financial inequality.
Matt Smith, Director of External Affairs at BetKnowMore, said: “It’s really important not to isolate gambling harm as one situation, but to look at it with a holistic approach.”
The council has teamed up with gambling charity, BetKnowMore, and Haringey Mind to deliver these support services from the 222 Upper Street Office.
Frankie Graham, Founder and CEO of the gambling charity, said: “Growing up in Camden and Islington, I was very familiar with the many licensed betting offices in those areas, and indeed across London. Problematic gambling triggered harms that followed me from the shops to every part of my life.”
One aim of the scheme is to help people spot when loved ones might be suffering. Mr Smith said the biggest challenge with gambling addiction is that it’s “hidden.”
Mr Smith is a recovered gambling addict. He said changes in finances and mental health are the most common warning signs of addiction. He said: “When I was gambling, it affected other areas of my life, such as my physical health, my wider mental health, and I lost my job, my income.”
The programme will include a public awareness campaign led by THRIVE London during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a best practice toolkit to improve the quality of support services.
Ms Graham said: “[We are] delighted that the North Central London network to reduce gambling harm has been given funding to develop a coordinated response to addressing the personal and community issues caused by gambling.”
