The Rutland’s new Gambling and Gaming Specific Outpatient Programme is a HSE-supported initiative designed to target the estimated 1-in-30 Irish adults struggling with gambling addiction.
The new, 10-week programme combines process group work, psycho-educational seminars, one-to-one counselling sessions and a robust after-care service. It is being launched in the run-up to the Cheltenham Races, where Irish punters are expected to lay €120 million in bets.
Galwayman Joyce, a former resident of the Rutland Centre, recently celebrated six years of recovery from gambling and alcohol addiction.
“Five years ago, I was at my lowest point, completely consumed by gambling and alcohol addiction. The Rutland Centre didn’t just help me stop gambling, it gave me the tools to rebuild my life, reconnect with my family, and take back control,” he says. “The support I received there was life-changing, and I’ll always be grateful for it. This new programme makes treatment more accessible to people, so I urge family members who are concerned about a loved one - or if you have a problem yourself - to get in touch.”
Emma Kavanagh, Head of Clinical Services at the Rutland Centre, oversees residential, outpatient, aftercare, and assessment departments in the 47-year-old facility which last year recorded 5,213 bed nights for addiction sufferers.
“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.” she says.
“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. 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.”
Referrals should be made through established pathways, including through HSE Social Inclusion Managers based across Co Galway. Individuals awaiting treatment may be invited to attend a preparatory group running every Friday to provide interim support.
See www.hse.ie
