The Gambling Problem Helpline is trialling a new call-back service for people with gambling problems who identify themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender (GLBT) and would like to speak about their gambling problem with a Helpline counsellor from the GLBT community. Chief Executive of the Gambling Problem Helpline, Gary Clifford, says that people who experience identity and sexuality issues have been known to experience gambling or other addictions. "We are trialling the service to assess whether there is a specialist need in this area. Whether the caller is a gambler or someone affected by a gambler, they can now choose to speak about the gambling problem with someone from the GLBT community who has an understanding of their situation, culture and the pressures that can contribute to problem gambling. "However, we must emphasise that this new call-back service is primarily for people with gambling problems that would be more comfortable discussing these with someone who has an understanding of the GLBT community. It is not intended as a gender or sexual identity counselling service," says Mr Clifford. Mr Clifford says that while the Helpline's core service is gambling problem counselling, they can refer callers to other service providers for sexual orientation advice or identity counselling and support if required. "We offer our callers a choice of the main helpline or specialist gambling counselling services related to different communities, including Maori, Pasifika and youth. The offer of a gambling counsellor from the GLBT community is another option. The choice of service is always the caller's prerogative." Call-backs can be arranged by phoning the main Gambling Problem Helpline (0800 654 655) and requesting the new service. All Gambling Problem Helpline counsellors undergo regular training to enable them to effectively support and communicate with callers from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures. Calls to the Gambling Problem Helpline and the GLBT call-back service are free, anonymous and confidential. Demand for the call-back service will be monitored over coming months to determine whether to continue with the service and whether additional GLBT counsellors will be required. The Gambling Problem Helpline is recognised as a world-leading provider of gambling problem helpline services. Its services include phone counselling, ongoing care and support through call-backs, online "chat-room" type forums, integrated care in partnership with face-to-face counselling and specialist phone lines (Maori, Pasifika, youth and gambling debt). Press release - 29th March 2004