New GambleAware responsible gambling survey released
Gambling is all about having fun, but it’s also serious business. And GambleAware. Especially where responsible gaming behaviour is concerned. That’s why gambling watchdogs exist. To monitor trends and behaviours and offer solutions and guidelines to players whose gambling is becoming problematic.
One such organization is GambleAware. The UK’s leading responsible gambling initiative is dedicated to the education, treatment and prevention of problem gambling. Most recently, GambleAware released the findings of a November 2023 survey conducted by YouGov, based on results from a pool of 18,178 adults across Great Britain.
So what does problem gambling look like in the UK? Based on the survey’s findings, it’s estimated that at least 1.65 million children under 18 are being raised in households where problem gambling is an issue. A factor leading to these same children being four times more likely to repeat the same patterns themselves later in life.
GambleAware is important
Moreover, the issue of legacy gambling has emerged as well. The impact that problem gambling continues to have on players who have given up gambling, most notably about their physical and financial health.
With these findings in mind, what can we do to help prevent problem gambling before it starts? For starters, a change in government policy. Something that GambleAware is actively advocating for. Calling upon policymakers to consider the “normalisation of gambling in daily life and help protect children and young people.”
More restrictions
Further to this, GambleAware is also calling for restrictions on TV advertising, more stringent warnings on gambling advertising, and a ban on gambling advertising at large-scale events.
“The figures published today in our Treatment and Support Survey highlight the impact of the normalisation of gambling across society on individuals, families and communities,” says GambleAware Chief Executive Zoë Osmond.
“The research shows a concerning link between early exposure to gambling at a younger age. And the risk of harms in later life and for the first time shows the lasting impact legacy harms can have. Gambling harms can affect anyone. Which is why it is so important that we break down the stigma associated with i. And encourage people to come forward and talk about gambling harm.”
The importance of promoting responsible gambling behaviour is important. For this reason we’re glad that organizations such as GambleAware exist. To keep people safe and to keep the industry a positive, welcoming space.