Leon House claims world-first with new treatment platform

UK-based residential gambling addiction centre Leon House has announced the launch of AnonyMind, a new service that it claims is the world’s first 24/7 online gambling treatment platform.

Developed in partnership with Cognacity, a specialist provider of mental health and addiction treatment, and independent gambling harm minimisation consultancy EPIC Risk Management, the platform aims to help those who suffer with online gambling problems.

AnonyMind will provide impartial and anonymous psychiatric assessment for all users, identifying any potential comorbid issues prior to starting treatment. Leon House said it would work with more than 120 consultants, within an expanding network of psychiatrists and psychologists.

All users that reach out on the platform out will receive a personalised treatment pathway, either in-house, as an outpatient at the purpose-built Leon House residential clinic, or direct through the new AnonyMind platform.

In addition, Leon House and AnonyMind professionals will host mental health and resilience workshops for in-house player protection and marketing teams.

“The recent £100m pledge to GambleAware from five BGC member operators shows that there is a real commitment from the UK gaming industry to help and support problem gamblers,” Leon House chief operating officer Chris Metcalf said.

“Now, with the launch of AnonyMind by Leon House, these same operators will be able to offer free, anonymous, 24/7 professional counselling to their players via video calls for the first time ever and residential treatment at Leon House should it be required.”

Carolyn Harris MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Related Harm, also praised the new scheme, saying that the ongoing novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has exposed the levels of problem gambling across UK communities.

Harris added: “It’s vital that people who are stuck in this vicious cycle are able to access support when they need it. AnonyMind's new 24-hour service allows users to get confidential, secure support whenever they might need it.

“I would encourage anybody who is struggling with gambling addiction to take a look at this platform and reach out for support if they need it.”