TWO new initiatives have been launched to let people with gambling problems know that treatment is easy to access.

Run by GambleAware, the campaign focuses on the idea that people with gambling problems feel disconnected from their family and friends and is based on promoting confidence that treatment is easy to access.

It also aims to help them overcome their struggles with gambling, and raises awareness of the National Gambling Treatment Service and its new Safer Gambling Campaign.

The National Gambling Treatment Service campaign seeks to promote self-referrals amongst those who are high risk of, or are currently experiencing, gambling disorder by directing them to the National Gambling Helpline or online support.

And with the return of football, the charity has launched a new campaign to make sports bettors aware of the risks of impulsive betting.

Over the next six weeks, a total of 92 games are scheduled to be played, and the campaign encourages people to think twice and avoid #BetRegret, by emphasising how easy it can be to make impulsive bets.

The Echo is now supporting GambleAware's new advertising campaign, which will run on radio, digital platforms and in national and regional press throughout July and August.

The campaign, titled 'Start to regain control' focuses on the all-consuming nature of gambling.

Targeted at men aged between 25 and 54 years old, with a specific focus on men aged 25 to 34 years, aims to:

• Signpost people to the National Gambling Treatment Service and build awareness of the 24-hour National Gambling Helpline.

• Increase awareness of the support that is available to help moderate risky gambling behaviour and to treat problem gambling behaviour.

• Increase knowledge of the signs that someone may be suffering form gambling related harms.

The free National Gambling Treatment Service works with the National Health Service and provides telephone, on-line and face-to-face treatment for individuals and groups, across Great Britain.

Self-referrals through the 24/7 National Gambling Helpline are the main route for accessing the treatment, which is provided by a network of NHS trusts and voluntary sector organisations.

For more information, visit BeGambleAware.org or call 0808 8020 133.