Netherlands Launches SVSG to Tackle Gambling Harm

The Netherlands has unveiled a national initiative aimed at improving early detection and prevention of gambling-related harm, creating a coordinated and structured approach across the country.

The Early Detection of Gambling Harm Partnership (SVSG) will receive nearly €2 million in funding from Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) via the Addiction Prevention Fund. The partnership brings together the Trimbos Institute, the Dutch Association of Addiction Specialists (VKN), the Municipal Health Service (GGD GHOR Netherlands) and the Dutch Debt Assistance Route (NSR).

Enhancing Early Intervention
The programme seeks to integrate expertise from addiction care, municipal services, peer support groups and social services, developing efficient practices for identifying gambling harm. This includes sharing knowledge, strengthening collaboration between local and national stakeholders and standardising professional approaches through national guidelines, training and e-learning initiatives.

KSA estimates that around 209,000 people in the Netherlands are at high risk of gambling addiction, yet only a small fraction receives timely treatment. Michel Groothuizen, Chair of KSA, emphasised that the SVSG “brings together knowledge, healthcare, debt counselling and local partners, allowing faster access to support and improving consumer protection.”

Pilot Programmes and National Expansion
The SVSG plans to launch pilot programmes in five municipalities in early 2026. Regional Attention Officers from VKN, project leaders from NSR, and local teams will collaborate to identify and refer gambling issues earlier. Training will be provided to professionals and educators to recognise gambling harm and ensure clients are referred for support.

By 2027, the partnership aims to expand its reach to at least 15 municipalities, continuing to strengthen prevention, intervention and knowledge sharing nationwide.