The decision follows Lottstift ending its partnership with the Norwegian health trust, Sykehuset Innlandet, which will cease operating the Gambling Helpline on 31 December 2023.
The appointment meets a growing concern by Lottstift on the increased demand of Hjelpelinjen, which in 2022 registered 825 inquiries, up 15% on 2020 figures.
Blå Kors was deemed as the optimal agency to operate the Gambling Helpline, which in 2024 will feature the support of 54 addiction care centres operating across Norway.
Expanding Hjelpelinjen’s support, Blå Kors operates a network of 1,700 skilled employees, 1,500 dedicated volunteers, and 2,400 active partners on addiction matters.
The appointment was announced by Lars Petter Degnepoll, Senior Health Advisor of Lottstift, who cited: “Blue Cross has worked with gambling problems for a long time and ..
