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GambleAware has released its most recent annual survey, which focuses on the harms of gambling and the treatment and support needed by those who gamble or those who are affected by someone else’s gambling.
YouGov’s report, based on a national representative survey of 18000 adults, shows that early exposure to gambling (such as watching family members play or advertising gambling on television) can lead to gambling harms in later life. Nearly two-thirds (64%) said that they knew someone who regularly gambled (e.g. Before they reached the age of 18, one in three (64%) adults who were classified as experiencing significant harm (PGSI 8+) said that they knew someone who gambled regularly. Comparatively, of the adults who don’t gamble, only one in four (25%) said they knew someone who did.
The study sheds some light on the number of people who were exposed to gambling as young children in Britain. 1 in 16 (6%) were exposed before they turned five years old and more than a quarter of those (28%) were exposed between the ages 6-11. One in five adults (22%) said they had gambled for the first time before turning 18 years old. This includes one in six (16%), who began gambling between ages 12-17. Many qualitative responses indicate that many people viewed this as a “turning-point” or that it was a family hobby they inherited that led them to gambling.
Participants in the qualitative study expressed concerns about the volume of gambling advertisements on TV and mobile apps. The participants said that it was difficult to prevent or restrict children’s exposure to this material because of its “always-on” nature. This has led to concerns about harmful gambling becoming an issue for generations. Research shows that young people (18-24 years old) are experiencing more harm due to gambling (PGSI 8,+), with a rise from 5.1% of this age range to 8.5%.
The PGSI 8+ group is more likely than the lower-risk groups to have sought out support, advice and treatment. Just 5% of low-risk gamblers (PGSI scores of 1-2), but 17% of moderate-risk gamblers (PGSI scores of 3-7) and 66% PGSI 8+ have used support, advice or treatment.
In the report, 7% of adults identified themselves as “affected others” – those who were negatively affected by gambling. This is similar to 2021. This equates approximately 3.6 millions GB adults. The survey suggests that 1.6 million children aged under 18 are living with adults who have suffered significant harm due to their gambling.
Nearly half of those who experienced significant gambling harms (48%) felt “embarrassed” or “ashamed” about their gambling, all the time or almost always. In interviews, these findings emerged as a common theme. The overwhelming majority of participants felt embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their gambling with family and friends.
The report highlights the stigma surrounding gambling (e.g. The stigma (e.g., feeling embarrassed or not wanting others to know) that surrounds gambling can be a barrier for many people who seek support. It can also have a negative impact on the mental health and wellbeing of those at risk.
In the last 12 months, 34% of those who were classified as PGSI8+ had not sought any type of support, advice or treatment in order to reduce their gambling. Forty percent of those who did not want support cited stigma.
This report shows that 3 out of 5 people (59%) who have problem gambling (PGSI8+) tried to reduce their gambling in the past year. This often led to a “relapse”, with many people who said they tried to reduce or stop gambling later saying that they began gambling again. The highest rate of relapse occurred among those with PGSI scores of 8+ (87%) compared to 72% for those with PGSI scores of 3+ and 64% for those with PGSI scores of 1+. Focus groups’ qualitative responses revealed that financial circumstances and life events can trigger relapse. Mental health, gambling promotions, and mental health are also potential triggers.
Zoe Osmond is the Chief Executive Officer of GambleAware. She said, “As a leading commissioning charity in Great Britain we are proud to publish this landmark Treatment and Support Survey. Gambling harms can be a serious issue for public health and affect anyone. This includes a growing number of children and youth.
We are concerned that gambling is becoming more common in society. This year’s report highlights a link between exposure to gambling early on and later harms. Parents also worry about their children being exposed to so much advertising and marketing.
It is important to eliminate the stigma surrounding gambling. This is a major barrier for those seeking advice and support. We encourage people who are struggling with gambling to open the dialogue and help end the stigma.
Kate Gosschalk said, “We’re pleased to share with you the results of the fourth annual Treatment and Support Survey. The research, which this year included an online survey of over 18,000 people as well as 30 in-depth phone interviews, explored new areas such the first time people were exposed to gambling. This survey will help us to learn more about the harms of gambling in Great Britain, and what we can do to help people get the support and help they need moving forward.
