Journey of the Gambling Harm
Peer Support Project
While peer support has long been recognised in mental health and other services, its role in addressing gambling harm is still emerging. In 2023, Te Whatu Ora commissioned Changing Minds to lead a groundbreaking project, the first of its kind in Aotearoa, to co-design a peer support framework for gambling harm, alongside a Community of Practice and a Knowledge Hub. Through workshops and collaboration with Lived Experience, whānau, and service providers, this project marks the start of a new chapter in how we understand, deliver, and grow peer support in the gambling harm sector.
Introduction
The journey to develop a peer support framework for gambling harm in Aotearoa began with a simple idea: those with lived experience of gambling harm are uniquely positioned to support others on similar journeys. This kaupapa is rooted in the belief that lived experience is not a deficit, but a vital source of hope, understanding, and leadership.
The early vision
The initial concept was inspired by the success of peer support in alcohol and drug services, recognising that nothing similar existed specifically for gambling harm. The framework sought to rise not despite gambling harm, but because of what the experience had taught those affected. It was always intended to be a map—something flexible, reflective, and shaped by the diverse voices of Aotearoa, especially Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities.
History of the Peer Support Framework for Gambling Harm
From the outset, this framework was shaped by the collective voices of communities across Aotearoa. Māori, Pacific, and Asian perspectives were actively included through the involvement of Mapu Maia, Asian Family Services, the Problem Gambling Foundation, and people with lived experience, ensuring that a wide range of cultural insights and realities were at the heart of its development.
We recognised early on that gambling harm is experienced differently for people and across communities—there is no single path to recovery. This diversity shaped our approach, affirming that support must be flexible, culturally grounded, and responsive to each person’s unique journey.
Rather than a set of prescriptive requirements, this framework serves as a navigational guide—a map that evolves as we learn together. It illustrates what peer support for gambling harm looks like in practice, grounded in shared values, lived principles, and the realities of everyday life.
Invitation to current & future peer supporters
This framework is here for anyone curious about stepping into a peer support role. It offers a real and welcoming look at what peer support work involves—the unique skills you bring, the ways you can make a difference, and how you can grow and thrive in this space.
We invite you to explore the framework in your own way—moving through it as you need, learning from others, sharing your own insights, and drawing on the richness of different cultures and lived experiences. This framework represents the collective voice and shared wisdom of lived experience whānau who contributed to its development, weaving together diverse perspectives from across Aotearoa. While it cannot capture every individual journey, it reflects common themes, strengths, and aspirations identified through extensive engagement with Māori, Pacific, Asian, and other communities.
Hope for the use of the framework
Informed by both the real experiences of contributors and the latest research on effective peer support, the framework highlights approaches shown to foster hope, connection, and positive change for those affected by gambling harm.
At its core, this framework signals real progress: lived experience of gambling harm is not something to hide, but a powerful asset needed throughout our services, communities, and leadership. By valuing and sharing our stories, we help shape a future where everyone’s experience matters and where support is grounded in empathy, respect, and possibility.