Public Health Wales has opened a two-year grant programme for non-profits working to reduce gambling harms. The Gambling Harms Voluntary Sector Grant Fund will distribute up to £700,000 annually, with a cap of £75,000 per organisation.
Applications opened on 31 August and close on 19 October. The Wales Council for Voluntary Action administers the fund. Eligible applicants include charities, community groups and social enterprises registered in Wales.
Priority goes to projects that 'de-normalise' problem gambling behaviours, deliver prevention in at-risk populations, and support people affected by another person's addiction. PHW identifies three vulnerable categories: those facing financial hardship, those involved with the criminal justice system, and those living with or close to someone with a gambling problem. Helen Erswell, PHW programme advisor, said the focus is on early intervention and reaching higher-risk groups.
Catherine Miller, director of grants at WCVA, called for participation from organisations across Wales, particularly those already working with the target populations.
The UK government announced a separate £25.4m programme earlier, funded by a mandatory levy on operators introduced in April last year.
