What is BeGambleAware?
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BeGambleAware is a UK charity that provides information, advice, and support services related to gambling harm. It funds research, education, and treatment programs, and is a key part of the UK’s gambling harm reduction landscape.
What BeGambleAware does
BeGambleAware operates the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) in partnership with GamCare. The begambleaware.org website provides information about problem gambling signs, self-assessment tools, and guidance on finding treatment. BeGambleAware funds treatment services through the NHS gambling clinic network, online counseling, and specialist treatment providers.
Funding and independence
BeGambleAware is funded by voluntary contributions from gambling operators. This funding model has been criticized by some public health advocates who argue it creates a conflict of interest. The charity maintains that it operates independently of its funders. The UK government has proposed moving to a statutory levy on operators to fund gambling harm services — a change that would reduce the charity’s dependence on industry contributions.
Ben Barber got into the gambling industry through the poker rooms of London in the early 2000s. After building up a solid grounding in casino, sports betting and poker, he made the move to Malta where he spent close to a decade writing for some of the biggest affiliate networks in the region. A few years ago he relocated to Bali, which shifted his focus toward website strategy and affiliate marketing. The casino side never really left, though. He still writes reviews, how-to guides and in-depth pieces on everything from slots and live dealer tables to crypto casinos and sweepstakes sites. His approach is fact-first: help players understand how online gambling actually works before they deposit a cent.