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NICE Recommends Healthcare Professionals Ask People About Gambling at Health Checks and GP Appointments
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended that general practitioners (GPs) in the UK to ask patients about their gambling habits during health checks and appointments.
The recommendation is included in the first clinical guideline on gambling-related harms: identification, assessment and management.
“Gambling-related harms” is the term used to describe the negative impacts of gambling on the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, communities and society. These harms affect people’s finances, relationships and health (particularly mental health).
The new guideline advises healthcare professionals and social service workers to ask about gambling in various situations. This includes appointments related to depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts or potential addictions such as alcohol or drug dependence. These groups may be at higher risk of gambling-related harm. NICE recommends identifying these risks as early as possible.
People may also be at increased risk of gambling-related harm for several other reasons, including if they are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Taking medication that may affect impulse control, experiencing safeguarding issues or violence or a family history of gambling that harms could also increase a person’s level of risk.
People should be encouraged to assess the severity of their gambling-related harms by completing a questionnaire available on the NHS website. This is based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a standardised measure for at-risk behaviour. A score of 8 or above indicates that they should seek support and treatment from a specialist gambling treatment service, while those with lower scores may also benefit from available support.
Healthcare professionals and social care practitioners must recognise and take action to ensure that stigma, shame and fear of disclosure does not prevent people experiencing gambling-related harms from seeking and accessing support and treatment.
It recommends using a tailored approach to meet the needs of each person, which could include providing them with access to vocation-specific services, such as veterans’ groups, or that take account of their ethnic background and religion. Treatments for gambling-related harms should also be provided in separate locations from services for alcohol or substance dependence.
The guidance recommends healthcare professionals consider involving a partner, family member or other person close to the person experiencing gambling-related harms in their treatment, if that is what they both want.
Gambling related harm has a devastating impact on those who experience it, and the people close to them. The useful and usable guideline will help healthcare professionals and others to identify those needing help earlier and ensure they get the treatment and support they need.
National Clinical Director for Primary Care, Dr Claire Fuller, said: “We welcome NICE’s decision as gambling can have a massive impact on people’s lives and the lives of the people that care for them, and as healthcare professionals, we need the right tools to help tackle gambling-related harms.
“Over the past few years, the NHS has made significant progress in expanding treatment for gambling addiction with the rollout of 15 specialist clinics across the country. So, if you’re worried about your gambling, there is support available, and you can directly refer yourself to your local NHS gambling clinic.”
Minister for Gambling Baroness Twycross said: “We welcome this guidance from NICE on identifying, assessing, and managing gambling-related harms, which will support those experiencing harmful gambling to get access to the right support.
“We know that clinical treatment is not necessarily right for everyone, but it is important that there is a full spectrum of support as we strengthen treatment options.
“The Government’s plans to introduce a statutory levy, which will generate £100 million each year, will provide the investment needed to further expand the support and treatment on offer for those in need.”
The Gambling Survey for Great Britain (2023), which collects data from 20,000 respondents each year, reported that 2.5% of the survey population aged 18 years and older living in Great Britain participate in “problem gambling” (defined as a PGSI score of 8 or more), with an additional 12% of the survey population participating in gambling with an elevated risk of harm (PGSI score 1 to 7). Overall, 2.8% of participants who had gambled in the past 12 months reported experiencing at least one severe consequence, such as the breakdown of a relationship. Rates were higher among male participants and were also higher among younger adults (those aged 18 to 34) than older adults (those aged 55 and over).
NHS England has opened 15 gambling clinics across the country since 2019 – seven of which opened in 2024. These clinics are expected to see 3000 people a year. All specialist clinics are fully NHS-commissioned and funded.
As set out in government’s response to the consultation on the structure, distribution and governance of the statutory levy on gambling operators, published in November 2024, the new statutory levy will provide a significant increase in investment for support and treatment services for gambling-related harm.
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HIPTHER Launches FREQ404: Tune in for a Sonic Journey of Balance by Sound and Error by Design
HIPTHER, the renowned online media and event organiser for Gaming and Tech, is turning up the volume – quite literally – with a powerful new initiative that brings music, identity, and community together. Meet FREQ404: an electrifying monthly music mix curated by HIPTHER’s very own Co-Founder, Zoltan Tuendik, under the HPT.R profile.
From the stage to the strategy room, the creative spark of Zoltan and his wife, Betty Tűndik Kiszner Szilágyi, Co-Founders of HIPTHER, has always been a driving force behind the brand. But long before the conferences and curated content, Zoltan was better known to many as DJ Hawkie – a curator of soundwaves and moods. With performances at iconic venues like Ministry of Sound London (during iGB 2014), his passion for electronic music has always been loud and clear.
Now, with FREQ404, he returns to his roots, remixing electronic music and innovation in true HIPTHER fashion.
“My first sessions were live back in 2005–2006, and I recorded my first mix in 2008. Over the years, I’ve dropped the occasional annual mix, but something always pulled me back to the decks. With FREQ404, that pull is now a purpose. To reconnect with the roots, the rhythm, and the community. This time, it’s monthly. This time, it’s staying.” — Zoltan Tuendik a.k.a. HPT.R
The #hipthers are known for their passion for life, wellness, and connection – fostering innovation, sustainability, and movement. Now, they celebrate these pillars with their community and the world through a shared musical experience.
“Error by Design. Balance by Sound.”
HPT.R broadcasts FREQ404 from the glitch in the system, delivering monthly sonic transmissions that blend progressive, techno, vocal house, and deep electronic cuts. Each mix is a journey – hypnotic, immersive, and impossible to ignore.
This isn’t just background music. It’s a frequency for those who feel the pulse of innovation and want to ride its beat.
Why FREQ404?
Because sometimes, the best signals come from the errors in the system. And because music is a companion and inspiration throughout our everyday lives.
From the edge of the digital frontier, HPT.R is setting the tone for a new kind of HIPTHER vibe – one that unites tech, culture, and energy across borders.
🔗 Follow and listen now on Mixcloud and Spotify.
📡 New mix every month. Stay tuned – this is only the beginning.
The post HIPTHER Launches FREQ404: Tune in for a Sonic Journey of Balance by Sound and Error by Design appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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‘Growing the Power of Play’ unveiled as creative proposition for 2026 edition of ICE Barcelona
Delegates attending iGB L!VE 2025, the first edition to be held in London following its relocation from Amsterdam will receive a sneak preview of the new creative which has been produced in support of the January 2026 edition of ICE Barcelona.
The ‘Growing the Power of Play’ creative embraces gaming’s ecosystem and serves as a celebration of the role played by ICE exhibitors and visitors in cultivating, nurturing and growing all aspects of the industry across every gaming sector and in every jurisdiction. The visual depicts an ICE Digital Garden of inspiration with the broader creative including subtle nods to key cultural icons including the Sagrada da Familia and the work of Salvador Dali.
Outlining the narrative Clarion Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter said: “Each year we place a lot of emphasis on our creative which sets the tone for the next edition of what is recognised as the most influential and important b2b gaming technology expo in the world. Every defining game, every gaming innovation and every adaptation of new technology has been shown at ICE and whether it’s planting the seeds of innovation, pollinating ideas or cultivating connections Growing the Power of Play encapsulates what the ICE experience is all about. The creative is both brave and different and has huge potential to be applied to experiential activations on-site.”
“It will underpin our global comms campaign as we focus on building on what was a hugely successful debut edition of ICE Barcelona.”
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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
Spinomenal’s latest release is a beautifully crafted 5×3 slot presenting a peaceful bamboo forest with koi ponds, temple rooftops, and misty mountain peaks. A calming, Asian-infused soundtrack ensures a tranquil environment to balance the thrill of the spin. Gold coins, ornate fans, red lanterns, bonsai trees, and vibrant peonies bring the game to life.
Play’n GO invites players to return to the charming world of Big Win Cat Pawsperity, where tradition meets treasure in this whimsically opulent 3×3 slot. The beloved Big Win Cat is back – but don’t expect the same familiar feline. Set within a lavish shop filled with talismans and charm-drenched décor, Big Win Cat Pawsperity brings a heightened layer of visual storytelling and layered rewards.
Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has launched American Sevens, a festive twist on its popular Hot Triple Sevens Hold & Win title, just in time for Independence Day in the Unites States. Bringing red, white, and blue flair to the reels, American Sevens combines proven Hold and Win mechanics with patriotic visuals, including stars, stripes, and the iconic bald eagle.
SlotMatrix announces the official launch of Fortuna Gold, set in a mythological odyssey where ancient gods and glittering fortunes await. Set in a mythical realm where Zeus commands thunder and Fortuna blesses the reels, this six-reel, medium volatility slot sees players seek the blessings of the deities and collect wins, coins, and jackpots.
Million Games is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest video slot, Farm Frenzy, an engaging and light-hearted adventure set on the charming yet chaotic Golden Egg Farm. With captivating gameplay, stunning visuals, and a story straight from the countryside, Farm Frenzy promises players an immersive and rewarding gaming experience.
Inspired Entertainment, Inc., is thrilled to announce the launch of Cops ‘n’ Robbers Bigger Big Money™ – the latest addition in the renowned Cops ‘n’ Robbers™ franchise. Now available in the UK B3, LBO market, this new release from Inspired’s Bell Fruit Games Studio builds on the popular Big Money mechanic, now enhanced with exciting new upgrades.
Relax Gaming has launched Groovy Knights Dream Drop, its latest slot release packed with funky features and lucrative jackpot potential. Groovy Knights brings a fresh disco twist to the popular Dream Drop series, giving players the chance to spin their way to wins of up to 10,000x a Dream Drop jackpot worth up to €2 million, and if that wasn’t enough, brand-new Daily Jackpots as well.
Amusnet has released its latest video slot game, Wenshi Lion. With five reels and 40 fixed paylines, the game brings ancient Chinese tradition to life, combining it with thrilling gameplay and top-notch visuals. Watch as the majestic Wenshi Lion leaps into action in the form of Expanding Wild
Blueprint Gaming™ is celebrating the highly anticipated release of its latest slot sensation, King Kong Cash™ Even Bigger Bananas 4. This new iteration sees the return of Blueprint’s great ape in an adventure packed with cash collectables, all-new unlocks, and even bigger win potential, continuing the legacy of one of the industry’s most iconic franchises.
Gaming Corps has unveiled Freedom Eagle – a star-spangled video slot bursting with bold graphics, thrilling mechanics, and the potential to deliver legendary wins. Set against a backdrop of patriotic energy, Freedom Eagle is a 5-reel slot with a unique 3x4x4x4x3 reel layout and 576 ways to win.
Stakelogic is turning up the heat this summer with the launch of Serpent Cage, a fiery new slot where myth meets multiplier mayhem. Released this week across global markets, this high-volatility title invites players to enter a realm of ancient treasure and venomous power, where Wilds and rewarding bonus features promise pulse-racing gameplay.
Prepare to enter a dazzling dimension where things are never what they seem in Crystalium – a new cluster pays slot in the Elysium Studios – Driven by Swintt where cascading symbols and ever-shifting reels create a totally unique experience on every spin. Set in a shimmering crystal world where precious gems and cloning wilds jostle for space on the reels, Crystalium invites players to embrace the unpredictable with a revolutionary new mechanic.
Playzia is set for a summer of love with the highly anticipated release of its latest online slot, Love Island – Love in a Spin. Developed under an exclusive three-year licensing deal with Zoo 55, part of ITV Studios, creator, producer and distributor of world-leading programmes, this brand-new online slot game combines iconic reality TV with cutting-edge slot mechanics.
Red Rake Gaming, a leading developer of online casino content, announces the release of Grand Bison, a new video slot that takes players deep into the wild plains alongside the mighty bison. Built on a classic5×3 reel layout with 25 paylines, Grand Bison delivers a thrilling and fast-paced experience packed with special features designed to boost win potential.
The post Week 26/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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