The chief executive of the Gambling Commission has visited a Bucks addiction charity, DrugFAM which was set up through funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Neil McArthur met with the founder, trustees, employees and volunteers from DrugFAM, an organisation which provides support to families whose loved ones are suffering from an addiction to drugs or alcohol, and those who are bereaved by addiction.

The High Wycombe charity, which was launched in 2006, also works with schools, rehabilitation units, and communities across the UK to raise awareness of the impact substance misuse has on families and the wider public.

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Its founder, Elizabeth Burton-Phillips MBE, was recently honoured with a Special Recognition Award at the 25th Birthday National Lottery Awards in November.

Neil McArthur said: “It is important in our role as the gambling regulator to ensure funds continue to be distributed to charities like DrugFAM.

“I met Elizabeth and her team recently at the National Lottery Awards and I was really struck by the charity’s drive and determination to help families and the community. Their work is vital and has helped hundreds of families who have been impacted by the effects of addiction.

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“Funding for good causes through the National Lottery will remain a priority for us as we look to the future, including at how technology and innovation can ensure that the success of the National Lottery continues in the years ahead.”

Elizabeth Burton-Phillips added: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Neil and to discuss at length how we can support one another.

“We now have many years of experience supporting the families of addicts which includes gambling addiction in addition to drugs and alcohol. For our families it is about them knowing this is the right place with the right people who are here every day of the year to help them. National Lottery Funding for our helpline has been vital.”

The DrugFAM helpline is available through 0300 888 3853. The helpline operates seven day a week from 9am until 9pm.