Facilities to help problem gamblers and those affected by people with the addiction will open Wednesday (Oct 15).

They are a gambling counselling hotline (1834 633) and two counselling and treatment centres.

Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho said: "Anyone with problems arising from their gambling behaviour, or who are affected by problem gamblers, can seek help through the hotline. Enquiries on how to assess the severity of the problems related to gambling behaviour and how to prevent such problems are also welcomed."

Calls will be handled by trained professionals.

The centres, financed by the Ping Wo Fund, are open from 10am to 7pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and from 10am to 10pm on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. They are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

The Caritas A.G. Counselling Centre is situated at 11 On Yin Street, Chai Wan Circuit, Tsuen Wan; and the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Even Centre is at Room 1501, Tung Ning Building, 2 Hillier Street, Sheung Wan.