New gambling support groups start in Barnsley this week

Adults worried about their gambling can join new weekly support groups in Barnsley YMCA or Goldthorpe Library from Tuesday 20 October.

Supported by funding from the government, Barnsley Recovery Connections has been commissioned to run a 12-month pilot, offering three support group meetings every week. These free and confidential sessions will provide a space for people to talk openly about gambling, share their experiences and get practical support.

Peer support can help recovery and wellbeing, as well as build confidence and encourage people to keep accessing support. Until now, residents have had to travel outside Barnsley to attend gambling support groups. With the launch of these new sessions, gambling support for Barnsley residents will now be much more easily accessible.

The programme is designed to be flexible. There’s no need to book, and the groups are open to anyone over 18. Although the sessions are organised in 12-week blocks, people can join at any time and take part in the session running that day.

Cllr Stan Bryan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Adult Social Care and Integrated Health, said:

“I’m pleased that support groups for gambling are now available in Barnsley. These new groups mean people can get free, confidential support closer to home. They will offer a space for people to talk openly and get practical help.”

You can find out more about the support groups on the Live Well Barnsley website.

Those looking for clinical support for a gambling problem can find more information on the NHS Northern Gambling Service website.