Gambling-harm minimisation consultancy EPIC Risk Management has entered a new agreement with RecoverMe, a mobile health app that aims to empower individuals to manage a gambling addiction from their pocket.
Through the partnership, EPIC will use the app to support the delivery of its educational programmes which support individuals who may be at risk or already suffering from a gambling addiction.
Commenting on the link-up, Patrick Foster, Epic Risk Management’s director of educational programmes, said: “RecoverMe shares many of Epic’s values and approaches to reducing gambling-related harm. They share Epic’s belief of how integral education is to provide a holistic approach to support individuals who may be at risk of developing a gambling addiction, or those who are already experiencing one.
“Furthermore, Epic recognises and believes that everyone who is struggling with issues with gambling addiction is able to access support and treatment, and RecoverMe allows individuals who may not have a recognised support pathway to immediate, accessible and effective treatment. We are looking forward to collaborating with them moving forward in selected programmes”
The RecoverMe app, which was launched in September 2020, was developed by three junior doctors, Minal Jain, Tejus Patel and Adil Nayeem.
Speaking to SBC News earlier this year, Dr Jain and Dr Patel explained how the app had been created in consultation with psychiatrists, psychologists and ex and current problem gamblers, utilising scientifically-backed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help individuals manage their gambling habits.
The app offers curated mindfulness, with other features including a self-monitoring diary that allows users to track their progress and identify patterns to their gambling habits; an emergency section that provides the user with immediate help wherever and whenever they require it and support from each other and other organisations.
Dr Minal Jain, co-founder of RecoverMe, said of the collaboration: “We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Epic to combine our efforts to reduce gambling-related harm across the country. Collectively, we can provide education, prevention, and management support within organisations where there is a higher prevalence of problematic gambling. Highlighting the need for all three of these fundamental components going forward.
“Epic Risk Management was founded in 2013 and since then they have established themselves as experts in the education and prevention space. It is inspiring to see how Paul Buck (Epic CEO & founder) and the Epic team have used their lived experience to make such a positive impact. They have worked with a number of organisations, in a variety of sectors throughout the country to tackle risks associated with a gambling addiction.
“By joining forces, we hope to increase the awareness around this addiction, reduce the stigma associated and offer individuals management tools such as RecoverMe that will be beneficial in their journey of recovery.
“Having shared the panel with Epic, at the SBC Digital Summit in Barcelona earlier this year, there was a resounding discussion regarding the incorporation of innovative solutions, so, to be working with Epic to make this happen is very exciting.”