GambleAware, the leading UK charity focused on preventing and treating gambling harm, has released its fourth Annual Treatment and Support Survey, shedding light on the alarming effects of gambling on children and young adults. The survey, conducted by YouGov, gathered 18,000 responses and reveals that up to 1.65 million children in Great Britain live with someone who struggles with problem gambling.
Early Exposure to Gambling Harms Future Generations
The survey highlights a disturbing pattern: children exposed to gambling from a young age are four times more likely to develop gambling issues later in life. GambleAware emphasized that these findings underline the urgent need to address early exposure to gambling harms. The charity’s report supports the growing recognition that gambling harm is a significant public health issue, especially for vulnerable populations like children and young adults.
Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, commented on the findings, stating, “GambleAware’s latest report demonstrates that there are millions who are at risk and that more needs to be done to protect them.” She also raised concerns about the impact of online gambling and the risks it poses to young people, warning against the normalization of gambling through exposure to advertising and online games.
Zoë Osmond, GambleAware’s Chief Executive, echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of breaking the stigma associated with gambling harm. “The results of the recent report highlight the impact of the normalization of gambling across society on individuals, families, and communities,” Osmond said. She also noted that early exposure to gambling activities is linked to an increased risk of harm later in life.
In response to the survey’s findings, GambleAware reiterated its call for a comprehensive national prevention strategy. The charity advocates for stricter regulation of gambling advertising, including mandatory health warnings, as well as a public health approach that focuses on prevention, early intervention, treatment, and aftercare. According to GambleAware, banning gambling advertising and enhancing health warnings could significantly reduce gambling harm and raise awareness about its dangers.
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