I am encouraging people across the country this Christmas and New Year to be aware of the harm that can be caused by problem gambling and reminding people where they can find help if they need it.
A new report has shown a stark rise in problem gambling among the over-65s with the age group seeing the largest increase in online betting since before the pandemic. Data from the Gambling Commission shows an overall marked increase in people gambling online.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, the director of Clean Up Gambling, a group campaigning for industry reform has said:
“The risk of addiction is higher with online gambling because of its greater accessibility and lower restrictions on stakes and speed”
“People are at home, are more vulnerable and are shielding and only have Facebook, their laptop and TV to keep in touch with people which means they are being constantly marketed at and the temptation is always there.”
So many of us have faced isolation at home over the pandemic and an increased reliance on social media and television for contact with the outside world. This clearly exposes people to more gambling advertising and to less regulated, more addictive online gaming.
Coupled with this there have been more widespread anxiety, financial worries and a disruption of normal routines – all of which could have driven people towards more dangerous gambling habits.
I support calls by the Coalition Against Gambling Ads to help end all gambling advertising, promotion and sponsorship in order to safeguard children and vulnerable adults from the predatory behaviour of many gambling advertisements.
Most people know someone who has had their life ruined by gambling. It is heart-breaking that several hundred gambling related suicides take place in the UK every year. By ending the gambling advertising culture we have, we can prevent some of the harm and suffering caused by predentary gambling.”
Anyone who is concerned about their gambling, or that of a loved one, BeGambleAware.org and the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 remain open to provide support and advice 24/7 over the holiday period. Further help can be found at: www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/public-and-players/guide/page/organisations-that-can-help
