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Gambling support services in Donegal

Ulster · Republic of Ireland

Donegal is served by HSE North-West addiction services. Letterkenny is the main regional hub; cross-border residents may also access services in Derry / Strabane (Northern Ireland).

Local in Donegal

  • HSE North-West addiction service covers Donegal.
  • MABS offices in Letterkenny, Donegal town and Buncrana.
  • Cross-border: ASCERT (NI) accepts referrals in the North-West.
  • Extern Problem Gambling national referrals.

Local listings are informational and non-endorsing. Always confirm opening hours and referral routes directly with each service.

National services that apply in Donegal

  • Gambling Care National Helpline — 1800 936 725 (free, confidential).
  • Extern Problem Gambling — free one-to-one support across Ireland.
  • Gamblers Anonymous Ireland — in-person and online peer-support meetings.
  • Gam-Anon Ireland — for family members affected by someone else's gambling.
  • HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline — 1800 459 459 (covers gambling).

Debt support in Donegal

MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service) operates in Donegal as well as nationally on 0818 07 2000. It is free, confidential and independent. See our complete guide to gambling debt in Ireland and the action-focused debt support hub.

Self-exclusion and blocking

Self-exclusion works the same way in Donegal as anywhere else in Ireland. See self-exclusion options and bank blocking.

If you are in crisis

  • Samaritans — 116 123 (free, 24/7).
  • Pieta — 1800 247 247 (free, 24/7).
  • Emergency — 999 or 112.

FAQs — gambling support in Donegal

Do I need a GP referral?
For HSE addiction services, usually yes. Voluntary services such as Gambling Care, Extern and Gamblers Anonymous accept self-referrals.
Is support free in Donegal?
HSE, MABS, Samaritans, Pieta and the major voluntary providers are free. Some private counsellors charge fees.
Can I get help anonymously?
Yes. Helplines and peer-support meetings can be accessed without sharing identifying information.
What if there is no local in-person service for me?
National phone and online services give full coverage, and several providers will arrange travel-free counselling by phone or video.

Neighbouring counties

More counties in Ulster

This page is information only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, counselling or crisis support.

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