Latest News
NICE Recommends Healthcare Professionals Ask People About Gambling at Health Checks and GP Appointments
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended that general practitioners (GPs) in the UK to ask patients about their gambling habits during health checks and appointments.
The recommendation is included in the first clinical guideline on gambling-related harms: identification, assessment and management.
“Gambling-related harms” is the term used to describe the negative impacts of gambling on the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, communities and society. These harms affect people’s finances, relationships and health (particularly mental health).
The new guideline advises healthcare professionals and social service workers to ask about gambling in various situations. This includes appointments related to depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts or potential addictions such as alcohol or drug dependence. These groups may be at higher risk of gambling-related harm. NICE recommends identifying these risks as early as possible.
People may also be at increased risk of gambling-related harm for several other reasons, including if they are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Taking medication that may affect impulse control, experiencing safeguarding issues or violence or a family history of gambling that harms could also increase a person’s level of risk.
People should be encouraged to assess the severity of their gambling-related harms by completing a questionnaire available on the NHS website. This is based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a standardised measure for at-risk behaviour. A score of 8 or above indicates that they should seek support and treatment from a specialist gambling treatment service, while those with lower scores may also benefit from available support.
Healthcare professionals and social care practitioners must recognise and take action to ensure that stigma, shame and fear of disclosure does not prevent people experiencing gambling-related harms from seeking and accessing support and treatment.
It recommends using a tailored approach to meet the needs of each person, which could include providing them with access to vocation-specific services, such as veterans’ groups, or that take account of their ethnic background and religion. Treatments for gambling-related harms should also be provided in separate locations from services for alcohol or substance dependence.
The guidance recommends healthcare professionals consider involving a partner, family member or other person close to the person experiencing gambling-related harms in their treatment, if that is what they both want.
Gambling related harm has a devastating impact on those who experience it, and the people close to them. The useful and usable guideline will help healthcare professionals and others to identify those needing help earlier and ensure they get the treatment and support they need.
National Clinical Director for Primary Care, Dr Claire Fuller, said: “We welcome NICE’s decision as gambling can have a massive impact on people’s lives and the lives of the people that care for them, and as healthcare professionals, we need the right tools to help tackle gambling-related harms.
“Over the past few years, the NHS has made significant progress in expanding treatment for gambling addiction with the rollout of 15 specialist clinics across the country. So, if you’re worried about your gambling, there is support available, and you can directly refer yourself to your local NHS gambling clinic.”
Minister for Gambling Baroness Twycross said: “We welcome this guidance from NICE on identifying, assessing, and managing gambling-related harms, which will support those experiencing harmful gambling to get access to the right support.
“We know that clinical treatment is not necessarily right for everyone, but it is important that there is a full spectrum of support as we strengthen treatment options.
“The Government’s plans to introduce a statutory levy, which will generate £100 million each year, will provide the investment needed to further expand the support and treatment on offer for those in need.”
The Gambling Survey for Great Britain (2023), which collects data from 20,000 respondents each year, reported that 2.5% of the survey population aged 18 years and older living in Great Britain participate in “problem gambling” (defined as a PGSI score of 8 or more), with an additional 12% of the survey population participating in gambling with an elevated risk of harm (PGSI score 1 to 7). Overall, 2.8% of participants who had gambled in the past 12 months reported experiencing at least one severe consequence, such as the breakdown of a relationship. Rates were higher among male participants and were also higher among younger adults (those aged 18 to 34) than older adults (those aged 55 and over).
NHS England has opened 15 gambling clinics across the country since 2019 – seven of which opened in 2024. These clinics are expected to see 3000 people a year. All specialist clinics are fully NHS-commissioned and funded.
As set out in government’s response to the consultation on the structure, distribution and governance of the statutory levy on gambling operators, published in November 2024, the new statutory levy will provide a significant increase in investment for support and treatment services for gambling-related harm.
The post NICE Recommends Healthcare Professionals Ask People About Gambling at Health Checks and GP Appointments appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market
The post Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE
Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of cutting-edge business intelligence solutions for the casino industry, and Modulus, an innovator in advanced gaming system technology, are pleased to announce a successful showcase at the International Casino Expo (ICE).
Throughout the event, both companies met with dozens of current customers and new prospects, demonstrating the latest in AI technology and data-driven business intelligence tools.
By joining forces in the Modulus booth, QCI and Modulus underscored the synergy of their combined technologies, generating excitement among attendees. The live demos highlighted how these next-generation solutions can empower casinos to make data-driven decisions, enhance customer engagement, and streamline operations.
“The energy at this year’s ICE was truly inspiring,” said Marc Attal, COO of Modulus. “Our newest technology received an exceptional response, and our digitalization strategy for slots and tables resonated deeply with clients who clearly saw the benefits of optimization it brings. Showcasing QCI’s solutions in our booth amplified our message and created an immersive experience that highlighted the potential of the cutting-edge AGI55 platform. The excitement and enthusiasm from both existing and prospective clients made this one of our most successful shows yet, reaffirming our commitment to innovation and excellence.”
“It was fantastic to be part of the show,” remarked Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI. “Meeting so many new customers and prospects has sparked a sense of excitement and optimism for what lies ahead for QCI in the global casino market. We are grateful to Modulus for the opportunity to partner in showcasing how our integrated solutions can help casinos operate more efficiently and profitably.”
Both companies look forward to expanding their footprint in international gaming markets, fueled by the success and enthusiasm generated at ICE. QCI and Modulus remain committed to developing innovative technologies that drive real-world results for casino operators everywhere.
The post Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN
- After achieving an exceptional end to the 2023-2024 season, Team Vitality returns with strong European and International ambitions.
- Since the start of the season, two superstars have joined the ranks of the Team Vitality roster: Derke and Less, alongside Sayf (IGL), Kicks and Trexx. The club’s new ambassador: Ardiis, will cast their matches all year round. With this team, the goal is simple but audacious: lay the foundations for a new legacy, make history on this new stage and qualify for the VALORANT Champions.
- Thus, Team Vitality is preparing to write a brand new FPS game story supported by the LEGACY campaign. And its first Ice & Fire chapter begins today!
Team Vitality proudly presents its VALORANT roster for the 2025 season. After securing a second European place and qualification for the VALORANT Champions 2024 at the end of last season, the team will endeavour to maintain its high standards and continue to shine on the European (VCT) and international scene. The first key meeting for this team is at the VALORANT Bangkok Masters 2025 on February 27th.
With a combination of youth, talent and experience, Team Vitality is proud to welcome two new international talents to the roster, with an already established track record in the game: Finnish-Russian Derke, the Brazilian powerhouse Less, and a new coaching staff.
A FIVE STAR ROSTER TO CONQUER THE WORLD
Team Vitality returns more determined than ever to the VALORANT scene. With two new players joining Kicks, trexx and Sayf (IGL and Team Captain), hoping to win a VCT title. In addition to this brand new roster, Team Vitality also integrates a new experienced coaching staff with the arrival of Faded.
New players and coaching staff
- Nikita “Derke” Sirmation (Finnish-Russian) – 21 years old: Former Counter-Strike player who switched to VALORANT. Considered one of the top three duelists of all time, Derke is known for his exceptional skills and decisive impact during matches and dominated the VCT:2023 LOCK//IN and the VCT Masters Tokyo in the same year – a feat never achieved before. With his international experience, Derke is ready to bring his strategic vision and talent to the team.
- Felipe “Less” Basso (Brazilian) – 19 years old: A true VALORANT prodigy, Less quickly gained attention with his excellent mechanics and superhuman reflexes. At the age of 17, he won the VALORANT Champions in 2022 and the VCT Americas League in 2023 and is considered one of the best players in his role as Sentinel.
- Daniel “Faded” Hwang (American) – 30 years as Head Coach: Faded has already coached within the TSM organisation and qualified for Ascension Finals in Mexico – all in his first year as a head coach! He has proven himself capable of developing talent and achieving exceptional results.
The new 2025 roster now stands as:
- Kimmie “Kicks” Lassner
- Saif “Sayf” Jibraeel (IGL)
- Nikita “trexx” Cherednichenko
- Nikita “Derke” Sirmitev
- Felipe “Less” Basso
For this new season, the talented Sayf has taken on the key role of IGL within the team. Elected duelist of the 2024 season in VCT, Sayf will have the important task of leading his team to victory.
With the arrival of two additional superstars to the team, Team Vitality sends a strong message: VALORANT is a priority for the club. While the VALORANT Champions will take place in Paris, the club’s homeland, Team Vitality hopes to make an impression at home.
“VALORANT is a vital scene for us. We were keen to strengthen the existing team with even more experienced profiles as we seek performance and aim for excellence. And this season is special: we hope to be able to defend our chances of victory at home, in Paris.” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, President and co-founder of Team Vitality.
LEGACY CAMPAIGN: AN ICE & FIRE ROSTER [CHAPTER 1]
Team Vitality is embarking on this new season with a clear and unwavering ambition: to write a new legacy on a key FPS game and shine at the VALORANT Paris Champions. To support this, Team Vitality is launching LEGACY, a campaign that will follow the team in three key chapters until the Champions next September.
https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1879931306143887621
The first chapter of this campaign begins at the Bangkok Masters on February 27th and will notably feature the two new stars of the team. The campaign will play on the elements of the roster: Derke, a Finnish player, known for his exemplary composure, embodies serenity and concentration. Less, a Brazilian player, with an explosive style of play, flamboyant actions and an energy capable of igniting his teammates. Together, they symbolise a complementarity of qualities essential for the roster’s goal of reaching the top.
VCT BUNDLE VITALITY: PLAY LIKE LESS OR DERKE!
Team Vitality is proud to announce that its official VCT bundle is now available for purchase via the in-game shop. These exclusive bundles embody the club’s unique identity and allow fans to proudly wear Hive’s colours, while supporting the team in its quest for glory on the VALORANT scene.
Each piece has been carefully designed to reflect Team Vitality’s competitive spirit and boundless ambition.
https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1876293118762315799
|
The post TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Latest News3 months ago
India’s top gamers Jonathan & TechnoGamerz to face off in eFootball showdown at DreamHack India 2024
-
Latest News2 months ago
The 2024 PUBG MOBILE Global Championship (PMGC) Grand Finals Arrive in London!
-
Latest News1 month ago
GamCare releases Annual Report following record breaking year of support on the National Gambling Helpline
-
Latest News2 months ago
Mortal cements his name as face of Indian gaming, wins ‘Content Creator of the Year’ at global Esports Awards 2024
-
Latest News2 months ago
Abios powers upcoming gaming media platform Apollo with in-play statistics for League of Legends
-
Latest News2 months ago
Mythpat, GamerFleet, Piyush Joshi Gaming: India’s popular Minecraft Players Gear Up for the Ultimate Battle in Creators Rumble
-
Latest News2 months ago
MelBet Appoints Bollywood Actress Sherlyn Chopra as its New Brand Ambassador
-
Latest News3 months ago
Booming Games Partners with Hollywoodbets to Launch Immersive Slots Games in South Africa
You must be logged in to post a comment Login