Lottstift seeks new partner to manage problem gambling helpline

Lottstift, Norway’s gambling authority, has revealed its plans to initiate a tender for the management of the 24-hour problem gambling helpline, ‘Hjelpelinjen‘.

The announcement comes as Sykehuset Innlandet, the health trust responsible for the provinces of Hedmark and Oppland, has decided to cease its management of the helpline on December 31, 2023.

As a result, Lottstift is seeking a new operator to assume control of Hjelpelinjen‘s management from 2024 onward. Bjørn Leirdal, Lottstift’s acting Director of Communications and Strategy, expressed disappointment at Sykehuset Innlandet’s decision but reassured the public that the helpline’s services would continue uninterrupted.

Leirdal stated, “It is a shame that Sykehuset Innlandet will no longer operate the offer as they have built up solid expertise in gambling issues since 2003.”

The Norwegian Government’s Action Plan for 2022-2025 outlines further development and reinforcement of Hjelpelinjen. The helpline is an essential resource for over 55,000 Norwegians facing gambling problems and the 122,000 individuals identified as being at risk. In 2022 alone, the helpline received 825 calls, indicating a rise in utilization compared to the previous year.

Emphasizing Hjelpelinjen’s significance in preventing gambling addiction and mitigating the negative consequences of gambling in the country, Leirdal said, “The Helpline is a vital part of our efforts to uphold this mission and will remain open for all those affected by problem gambling issues