The role of self-directed tools and strategies in reducing gambling harm: Final report

Summary

This report evaluates the Improving Outcomes Fund which supports community-led, culturally responsive projects to reduce gambling harms among women and minority ethnic and religious communities. It also provides recommendations for future commissioners and the wider gambling system.

Topics covered

Drivers of gambling harm inequalities
Barriers to recognising harm and support
Community-led, culturally responsive interventions
Lived experience and trauma-informed trust
Structural factors shaping sustainability and integration

Key findings

Gambling harms for women and minority ethnic and religious communities are driven by stigma, inequality, financial pressure and easy access to gambling.
Many face barriers to support due to mistrust, low awareness and a lack of culturally and gender-appropriate services. Projects reduce these barriers by embedding gambling support within trusted community spaces and wider services.
Community-led trauma informed approaches, centering lived experience are essential for building trust and engagement.
Short-term funding and unestablished referral pathways limit the sustainability and wider impact of projects.

An executive summary document for this report is also available using the link below.

Download Executive Summary

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Improving Outcomes Fund Learning and Evaluation Report

Improving Outcomes Fund Learning and Evaluation Report