This literature review provides a systematic review of information about the provision and effectiveness of residential programmes for gambling harm treatment in New Zealand and overseas. It covers cost-benefit analysis, treatment effectiveness research, evidence supporting a residential approach to gambling treatment, and guidelines supporting such treatments.
The review found limited research into the effectiveness and efficiency of residential settings for the treatment of gambling harm. In addition, it is difficult to compare research findings because of the range of therapies provided across reported studies of residential programmes and the wide variations in length and focus of the programmes, therapies used, and individual differences with clients.
Despite the relative limited evidence and perceived high and resource-intensive costs, there is support for availability of such a residential option, largely based upon expert opinion and experience, and face-validity for its need.