Foundation calls for mental health support for gamblers
Problem gambling, recognised as a mental health disorder, can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) is calling for resources to prioritise mental health for problem gamblers.
The organisation is drawing attention to the policy issues of problem gambling as a mental health concern and the legislative frameworks in place to support affected individuals.
Problem gambling, recognised as a mental health disorder, can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities.
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The SARGF emphasises the importance of rehabilitation processes and the need to address legislative gaps to ensure comprehensive protection for vulnerable people.
The SARGF is calling upon policy and lawmakers to develop a multi-cross-departmental policy between the Department of Trade Industry and Competition (the custodian of the National Gambling Act 2004), the Department of Social Development for the protection of the elderly, minors and social grant recipients, Department of Basic Education for protection of minors against illegal underage gambling taking place as schools and Department of Health.
As a leading NPC, the SARGF reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights of problem gamblers to access quality mental health care and rehabilitation services, ensuring no one is left behind.
“Access to mental health care is a fundamental right and problem gambling is a serious life-changing experience that requires urgent attention.
At the SARGF, we are dedicated to ensuring that individuals affected by gambling addiction receive the support and treatment they need to rebuild their lives despite limited resources.
“No one should face this struggle alone,” said executive director Sibongile Simelane-Quntana.
“The National Gambling Act of 2004 provides a framework for assisting individuals battling gambling addiction through voluntary self-exclusion programmes.
These programmes allow individuals to exclude themselves from gambling activities.
“During this time, participants are required to undergo counselling or treatment sessions through the SARGF’s National Responsible Gambling Programme (NGRP).
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“In addition to self-exclusion, the Act allows for third-party exclusions, where dependents or financially reliant parties can apply to the courts to have a problem gambler excluded from gambling activities.
“While this provision is a step forward, it has yet to be tested in South African courts, highlighting the need for further awareness.
“In the financial year 2023/2024, the NRGP received 2662 referrals.
“Of the 2662, 741 were for self-exclusion of which 560 were treated and 522 self-exclusion letters were written and sent to the respective provincial gambling boards to either uplift or maintain their self-exclusion status,” said Simelane-Quntana.
Simelane-Quntana said challenges remain in the legislative framework. Self-exclusion in one province does not automatically apply to others, creating loopholes that can be exploited.
“The regulation of online gambling, which is still in its draft stages, requires urgent attention.
The proposed legislation aims to protect minors and vulnerable people, ensure compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) and establish a robust framework for the online gambling industry,” said Simelane-Quntana.
The SARGF urges stakeholders, including policymakers, gambling operators and the public, to work together to strengthen the legislative framework and promote responsible gambling practices before the country reaches a tipping point of a gambling-related crisis.
“Problem gambling requires a compassionate and comprehensive response. While the self-exclusion and third-party exclusion mechanisms are valuable tools, we must address the gaps in our legislation to ensure that no one falls through the cracks.
“Human Rights Month is an opportune time to reflect on how we can better protect the rights and dignity of those affected by gambling addiction,” said Simelane-Quintana.
For more information about the SARGF and its activities, see to www.responsiblegambling.org.za. If you have a gambling issue, please contact the National Responsible Gambling Programme at helpline@responsiblegambling.org.za or call the toll-free counselling line at 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp ‘help’ to 076 675 0710.
