The issue of gambling-related harm in Great Britain has taken a concerning turn, as highlighted by the recent findings from GambleAware’s Annual Treatment and Support Survey. This comprehensive study, conducted by YouGov in November 2023, offers a detailed examination of the demand and usage of treatment and support services for gambling harms across the nation. With 18,178 adults participating, the survey sheds light on the prevalence and impact of gambling on individuals, families, and communities, especially focusing on the risks faced by children and young people.
The Growing Impact of Gambling on Families: Alarming Data on Children
One of the most striking revelations from the survey is the estimate that 1.65 million children under the age of 18 are living in households where an adult is experiencing problem gambling. This figure underscores a significant concern: the ripple effects of gambling problems extend far beyond the individual, impacting the most vulnerable members of society—children. The data shows that these children are at a much higher risk of developing gambling problems themselves, with the likelihood of them becoming problem gamblers being four times higher (8%) compared to those not affected by a gambling issue in the family (2%).
This finding is crucial as it emphasizes the generational impact of gambling. The presence of problem gambling within a household not only affects the immediate well-being of children but also poses long-term risks to their future mental health and financial stability. The normalization of gambling within these environments may lead to early exposure, potentially setting a pattern that continues into adulthood.
Legacy Harms of Gambling: New Insights into Long-Term Impacts
For the first time, the GambleAware report delves into the concept of “legacy harms”—the long-term effects experienced by individuals who have stopped gambling. This new dimension of research highlights the persistent nature of gambling-related issues, even after one has ceased the activity. Among the respondents who used to gamble, a significant 18% reported experiencing urges to gamble again within the last six months. This statistic is particularly alarming as it suggests that the psychological and emotional ties to gambling can remain strong, posing a continuous challenge for those in recovery.
Legacy harms extend beyond mere urges; they also encompass the financial and physical health impacts that linger long after gambling has stopped. These enduring effects underline the need for ongoing support and intervention, even for those who consider themselves former gamblers. The report’s inclusion of legacy harms marks a significant step forward in understanding the full spectrum of gambling-related issues and the importance of long-term care and prevention strategies.
The Normalization of Gambling in Society: A Call for Policy Reform
GambleAware’s Chief Executive, Zoë Osmond, emphasized the need for urgent policy changes in response to the survey’s findings. The normalization of gambling in daily life is seen as a major contributor to the increasing rates of gambling harm, especially among children and young people. The integration of gambling into everyday activities, such as watching sports or engaging with media, has made it more accessible and seemingly innocuous, leading to greater exposure and acceptance.
Pre-Watershed Ban on TV Advertising
Limiting the exposure of young people to gambling advertisements by enforcing a ban on such ads before the 9 PM watershed. This move is aimed at reducing the early exposure that can lead to normalized perceptions of gambling.
Improved Health Warnings
Strengthening the messaging around the risks associated with gambling through more prominent and effective health warnings on all forms of gambling advertising. This initiative is intended to raise awareness about the potential harms and make the dangers of gambling clearer to the public.
Ban on Gambling Marketing at Sporting Events
Removing gambling advertisements from sporting events to prevent the association between sports and gambling, which often glamorizes the activity and targets younger audiences.
Breaking the Stigma and Promoting Treatment: A Crucial Step Forward
A critical aspect of addressing gambling harm is overcoming the stigma associated with it. Many individuals suffering from gambling problems are reluctant to seek help due to the shame and guilt that often accompany their struggles. Zoë Osmond highlighted the importance of breaking down these barriers to encourage more people to come forward and seek the necessary support.
The survey’s findings make it clear that gambling harms are not limited to a specific demographic—they can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. Therefore, increasing public awareness and normalizing the conversation around gambling harm is essential in creating an environment where individuals feel safe and supported in seeking help.
Gambling in Socially Excluded Communities
In addition to the Annual Treatment and Support Survey, GambleAware also commissioned a separate study by The National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) to explore the relationship between gambling and socially excluded communities in Great Britain. This research highlights the disproportionate impact of gambling on vulnerable groups, including those facing economic hardship, social isolation, and other forms of disadvantage.
The findings from this study reveal that individuals in socially excluded communities are more likely to experience gambling harms due to a combination of factors such as limited access to support services, higher levels of stress, and fewer opportunities for leisure activities that do not involve gambling. This underscores the need for targeted interventions and support systems tailored to the unique needs of these communities.
Moving Forward: The Need for Comprehensive Solutions
The findings from GambleAware’s Annual Treatment and Support Survey, along with the NatCen study, paint a clear picture of the pervasive and multifaceted nature of gambling harms in Great Britain. The data reveals the urgent need for comprehensive solutions that address both the immediate and long-term effects of gambling on individuals, families, and communities.
Policy Reform
As suggested by GambleAware, stricter regulations on gambling advertising, particularly around its exposure to children and young people, are crucial. The proposed bans and improved health warnings are necessary steps toward reducing the normalization of gambling.
Enhanced Support Services
Expanding access to treatment and support services for those affected by gambling, including former gamblers dealing with legacy harms, is essential. This includes providing specialized care for socially excluded communities who are at a higher risk of gambling-related issues.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Raising awareness about the risks of gambling and the available resources for help is vital in encouraging individuals to seek support. Public campaigns should focus on de-stigmatizing gambling harm and promoting a culture of openness and assistance.
Research and Monitoring
Continued research into the impacts of gambling, particularly among vulnerable populations, is necessary to inform policy decisions and develop effective interventions. Monitoring the long-term effects of gambling, including legacy harms, should be a priority to ensure that support services remain relevant and effective.
The 2023 Annual Treatment and Support Survey by GambleAware serves as a stark reminder of the widespread impact of gambling on British society. With 1.65 million children affected by problem gambling in their households, and the alarming rise in legacy harms, it is clear that urgent action is needed to protect current and future generations.
By implementing the policy changes suggested by GambleAware, increasing investment in prevention and treatment programs, and fostering a more supportive environment for those affected by gambling, Great Britain can begin to address the deep-rooted issues associated with gambling harm. The path forward requires collective effort from the government, industry, and society as a whole to ensure that the next generation is not only protected from the harms of gambling but also supported in leading healthier, safer lives.