GambleAware, the leading gambling harms charity in Great Britain, has introduced interactive maps that provide detailed insights into gambling-related issues at local authority and parliamentary constituency levels across Great Britain. This new research highlights regional differences in the experiences and access to support for those affected by gambling problems, focusing on Scotland’s unique position in the broader context.
Gambling Harms in Scotland:
The research uncovered significant variations in the experiences of gambling harms between Scotland and the rest of Great Britain. In Scotland, only 16.7% of individuals reported experiencing problems with gambling access to treatment, support, or advice, which is lower than the 20.9% average across Great Britain. Furthermore, the data reveals that a smaller percentage of people in Scotland (15.5%) sought help compared to the national average of 19.4%.
Factors Driving Help-Seeking Behavior:
One of the key findings in the research was the prominent role of financial consequences in motivating individuals in Scotland to seek help for gambling problems. A significant 29.2% of those seeking help in Scotland cited the impact on their finances as a primary reason. This highlights the multifaceted nature of gambling harms and the diverse triggers for individuals to seek assistance.
Gambling Participation and Regional Variations:
The research also examined the prevalence of gambling participation across regions. In 2022, 60.5% of people in Scotland engaged in some form of gambling, slightly surpassing Great Britain’s average of 60.3%. Notably, Glasgow City stood out as the area with the highest rate of individuals experiencing negative consequences associated with gambling.
Addressing the Treatment and Support Gap:
Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, expressed concern about the lower rates of treatment and support access in Scotland. She emphasized that gambling harms can affect anyone and encouraged individuals to reach out for help. GambleAware’s free, confidential advice, tools, and support are readily available to assist those in need. The National Gambling Helpline, operational 24/7, can be reached at 0808 8020 133.
GambleAware’s release of these interactive maps and regional data offers a vital resource for understanding the nuanced landscape of gambling harms in Great Britain. As the government consults on a statutory gambling levy, it is increasingly important to address and support the diverse needs of communities grappling with the consequences of gambling. These findings will help inform targeted interventions and support efforts to combat gambling-related issues effectively across the nation.