WALES has become the first UK country to offer nationwide access to a new online NHS programme for people affected by gambling harms.

The free course, Space from Gambling Harms, is available through the SilverCloud platform and can be accessed at any time on a phone, tablet or computer without the need to see a GP.

It forms part of the new All-Wales Gambling Treatment Service, which launched in April alongside a 24-hour helpline.

The 12-week programme is based on cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational enhancement therapy, helping users reflect on their gambling habits, build confidence, and develop skills to regain control.

Jodie Morgan, Clinical Operational Manager at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which manages the gambling service and helpline for NHS Wales, said: “Improving access to support is a key part of the All-Wales Gambling Treatment Service.

“Space from Gambling Harms offers people another way to access confidential, evidence-based support at a time that suits them, and we will be supporting patients across Wales to access the programme alongside our wider treatment offer.”

The course is available to anyone in Wales aged 18 or over via self-referral. Users are advised to spend around 20 minutes a day, three times a week, working through the programme.

Anyone who self-refers is assigned an NHS-trained supporter who can provide guidance, advice and encouragement.

Fionnuala Clayton, project manager for NHS Wales’ online CBT service, said: “Through SilverCloud, we want to remove as many barriers to support as possible and provide people with tools they can use in a way that fits around their lives.

“This programme gives people the opportunity to reflect on their habits, gain the skills and confidence to control their gambling, and get their lives back on track.”

The programme is one of 28 mental health and wellbeing courses available through SilverCloud, which is managed by Powys Teaching Health Board.

Other SilverCloud programmes for mild-to-moderate mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, depression and poor sleep, are available to anyone in Wales aged 16 or over.

In Wales, research suggests tens of thousands of people are affected by gambling harms each year.

The new helpline offers information, advice and support to anyone affected by gambling, including family members and others impacted. Where needed, callers can be referred on to specialist treatment services.

Anyone affected by gambling harms can call the 24/7 helpline on 0808 281 9265.

Professionals and individuals can also refer to the Gambling Treatment Service by calling 03000 859464 or emailing [email protected].

Self-referrals to SilverCloud’s Space from Gambling Harms programme can be made at nhswales.silvercloudhealth.com/signup/.

A UK GOVERNMENT review into access to face-to-face banking services has begun, with communities, businesses and organisations being urged to submit evidence.

The independent review, chaired by former Which? director and former FCA board member Richard Lloyd OBE, will examine the impact of changes to in-person banking services across the UK.

It will look at whether branch closures and reduced access to banking services are causing harm to consumers, communities and businesses, particularly those who rely on face-to-face support.

The Call for Evidence opened today, Monday (Jun 8), and will run for six weeks, closing on July 20.

The evidence gathered will help shape recommendations to the UK Government, with final recommendations expected in October 2026.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Rachel Blake said: “Banking services matter to communities and businesses across the UK – and that includes face-to-face services.

“Whether you are responding as an individual or a business, your experience could shape the recommendations this review makes to Government.

“Where evidence shows people are being left behind, we will act – including through legislation if necessary.”

Richard Lloyd OBE said banking was “an essential service” needed by consumers, communities and businesses.

He said the review wanted to gather “the best possible up-to-date evidence” on the challenges faced by those who need in-person banking.

The review follows concerns across the UK about the loss of local bank branches, leaving many customers dependent on online services, telephone banking or limited alternatives.

The Treasury said the Government would act quickly where evidence showed intervention was needed to protect access to banking services.

Responses should be submitted by July 20 through the online Smart Survey on the review’s GOV.UK page. Those unable to use the survey can email [email protected].

ALL FOUR Plaid Cymru MPs have been criticised after signing a Westminster motion opposing the UK Government’s draft Equality Act Code of Practice on services, public functions and associations.

The motion, tabled on Monday (Jun 1), calls for the draft Code to be disapproved. It has been signed by 95 MPs, including Labour, Liberal Democrat, SNP, Green and Plaid Cymru members.

Plaid’s four MPs — Liz Saville Roberts, Ben Lake, Llinos Medi and Ann Davies — all added their names on Wednesday (Jun 3).

The draft Code was laid before Parliament on May 21 following the Supreme Court judgment on the meaning of sex in the Equality Act. The Equality and Human Rights Commission says the updated guidance is intended to help service providers, public bodies and associations understand how to comply with equality law.

The Code covers all protected characteristics, but the most politically sensitive part concerns single-sex and separate-sex services, including facilities such as hospital wards, changing rooms, toilets and domestic abuse services.

Supporters of the Code say it gives legal clarity for women-only spaces and reflects the Supreme Court ruling. Critics argue it risks excluding trans people from services and could create uncertainty for organisations trying to balance competing rights.

Natasha Asghar MS, Welsh Conservative Member of the Senedd for Casnewydd Islwyn, said Plaid Cymru must explain its position to women in Wales.

She said: “Women in Wales deserve clarity, dignity and safety. That means having the right to single-sex spaces enshrined and protected in law.

“Plaid needs to explain why they are siding against women-only spaces. These are not legal technicalities. They are refuges for domestic abuse survivors, hospital wards and changing rooms. Real spaces where real women have a right to privacy and safety.”

However, the motion signed by Plaid MPs does not itself remove any legal protection. It is an Early Day Motion calling for Parliament to reject the draft Code before it comes into force.

The Code remains subject to parliamentary scrutiny. If it is not disapproved within the required period, the UK Government will set a date for it to come into effect.