Ireland’s first funded gambling addiction programme launches at The Rutland Centre

Rutland Centre 

Ireland has launched its first fully-funded gambling addiction programme at The Rutland Centre in Dublin. 

Titled the ‘Gambling and Gaming Specific Outpatient Programme’, this scheme seeks to provide rehabilitation for those who suffer from problem gambling; through various measures, ranging from counselling sessions to residential care. It is backed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in a bid to deliver “targeted support to individuals struggling with gambling addiction.”

The introduction of this new programme comes in the wake of a study from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) which outlines that around 130,000 Irish adult citizens suffer from problem gambling. 

According to The Rutland Centre, such figures evidence Ireland’s 'gambling crisis' – as figures attained from the ESRI’s research evidence a tenfold increase on 2019’s analysis. With one in 30 people suffering from problem gambling, it is anticipated that this programme shall “bridge the gap in services for those in need of specialised services.”

Further numbers estimate that 279,000 Irish people exhibit moderate problem gambling behaviour. Thus, this “significant shift” in Ireland’s approach to gambling help services endeavours to address crucial issues faced by thousands of adults throughout the country. 

Financial limitations that have prevented those in need of help from accessing currently-available facilities are diminished with the launch of this programme – as The Rutland Centre offers ‘comprehensive support without financial barriers’ in its 10-week course. 

Aftercare support via the ‘Continuing Care’ programme is also available to registrants following the conclusion of the initial multi-faceted course. Specifically, the Gambling and Gaming Specific Outpatient Programme comprises twice-weekly group therapy sessions led by qualified professionals across its 10-week structure. 

Participants will also gain access to a weekly online psycho-educational seminar, which covers crucial topics such as addiction awareness, relapse prevention and emotional regulation. 

Moreover, programme participants shall partake in bi-weekly one-to-one focused counselling sessions catered to their specific needs. 

This programme is open to those who have received a referral from their local HSE social inclusion manager. A channel between both entities already exists – and referrals will be processed via this existing pathway. 

A total of 26 places have been funded for the year. However, Emma Kavanagh, head of clinical services at the Rutland Centre, expressed hope that the organisation “might be able to grow” that figure in the future, as mentioned in an interview with Irish radio station, RTE Radio 1.

Kavanagh further discussed the programme in a public statement issued by The Rutland Centre: “Problem gambling is something we are seeing more of here at The Rutland, particularly among young men. Mobile phones and online gambling apps are making the problem worse, as it’s become far too easy to place a bet anytime, anywhere. 

“Our Gambling Specific Outpatient Programme supports people in taking back control, whether their addiction stems from sports betting, online casinos, or other forms of gambling.”

She continued to outline how and why the centre’s regimen works: “This type of treatment is effective because it provides structured support in a group setting, helping individuals recognise harmful patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms. 

“Families should consider this programme because gambling addiction often affects loved ones as much as the individual, and structured support can help rebuild relationships and restore stability.”

The commencement of this programme comes during an important period for Ireland’s gambling industry, as the recently-established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) enforces safer gambling rules to protect minors and adults from potential gambling harms.

To learn more, visit our responsible gambling at casinos page which also offers resources and advice on where to seek help if needed.