Lord Sharman of Redlynch, Chairman of Aviva, is to be the new President of GamCare, the national responsible gambling charity. He will start the new role from September addressing GamCare’s annual conference on 3rd November.

In relation to the role Lord Sharman commented:“I am pleased to take on the mantle of my friend and predecessor as President of GamCare, Lord McIntosh of Haringey, who sadly died last year. GamCare is an excellent example of real corporate responsibility in action, where industry and charity work together to address an important but largely hidden social issue. I am looking forward to doing what I can to help ensure that the industry’s money is spent wisely and well to help gamblers and their families”

Anthony Jennens, Chairman of GamCare, added: “I am extremely pleased that Lord Sharman has agreed to become our President. He will add a powerful and authoritative voice to our cause. His exemplary record in business is matched by his experience and knowledge both of corporate responsibility and central government.

Whilst GamCare continues to expand and improve its services – we now receive nearly 1,000 helpline calls every week, and last year treated more than 2,600 gamblers and family members – there is still much more for us to do. We want to ensure that counselling is available in every part of the country for those who need it, and that teenagers, parents and teachers are much better informed about how to gamble responsibly. Lord Sharman’s considerable experience, wisdom and energy will help us strengthen our influence and extend our reach.”

Lord Sharman became Chairman of Aviva plc in 2006, having been appointed to the Aviva Board in 2005. Before joining Aviva, Lord Sharman had a long association with KPMG, becoming Chairman KPMG International in 1997.

He entered the House of Lords as Baron Sharman of Redlynch in October 1999 and sits on the Liberal Democrat benches where he has spoken particularly on business, enterprise and regulatory reform. In 2002 Lord Sharman completed a study of Central Government Audit and Accountability commissioned by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

He is also Chairman of the Advisory Panel for GoodCorporation, which is internationally recognised as a leader in corporate responsibility and business ethics.

About GamCare

GamCare is the national provider of education, advice, practical help, support and treatment for anyone affected by problem gambling. Founded in 1997, the GamCare helpline receives nearly 1000 calls per week with 85% of clients rating the service as “very good” or “excellent”. GamCare counselling services helped more than 2,600 clients in 2010/11. Around two thirds of problem gamblers whom we help no longer score as problem gamblers at the end of treatment. GamCare is funded through voluntary contributions from the gambling industry collected by the GREaT Foundation and distributed by the Responsible Gambling Fund. GamCare receives no government funding.