GambleAware Chief Executive Zoë Osmond has was named in the New Year Honours List of appointments made by King Charles III.
Given for exemplary services in tackling and treating problem gambling harms and addiction, Osmond was given an Order of the British Empire (OBE), in a significant testament to her work in the sector.
Following the news, Osmond thanked all organisations and stakeholders supporting GambleAware in combating gambling harms across local communities:
“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this OBE. This is recognition of the tireless efforts of the whole team at GambleAware, our partners, and the wider lived experience community who have shared their personal stories and insights with the hope of reducing gambling-related harm across Great Britain.”
Osmond has served as CEO of GambleAware since 2021, overseeing the charity’s transformation and the expansion of a new national strategy to reduce gambling harms.
As CEO, Osmond has overseen GambleAware’s development of the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN), providing a deeper approach to the treatment of gambling addiction focused on early intervention of risks, education, research, and providing specialised training for new stakeholders to recognise harms.
Of significance, the NGSN has provided vital feedback from those with lived experience of gambling harms and addiction to MPs, researchers, and policymakers during the development of the Gambling Review’s White Paper.
Osmond concluded: “I am privileged to lead an organisation that is committed to supporting those affected by gambling harms, raising awareness, and driving meaningful change. As we enter a new year, we must continue to work together, strengthen our efforts, and ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the help and support they need.
“I dedicate this award to those who have been affected by gambling harms, whose resilience continues to inspire us every day, and to all the individuals and organisations working alongside us to prevent gambling harm.”
