New research by the UK Gambling Commission has revealed that many gamblers do not trust the support tools provided by gambling operators. The findings, based on lived experiences from players, highlight concerns about the purpose and effectiveness of these tools.
Good to know
- Many gamblers feel support tools are driven by operator profit motives.
- Some tools like deposit limits were found helpful by participants.
- Financial strain and social isolation were common consequences reported.
The research, released Thursday, was developed by the Gambling Commission in partnership with NatCen and included insights from the Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP). It focused on the real-world impact of gambling harm, drawing responses from the Gambling Survey for Great Britain.
Players who had experienced negative consequences from gambling were asked about their awareness and use of operator-provided tools. Several said they were unfamiliar with what was available. Among those who were aware, many doubted the sincerity of the tools. Some called them a “PR exercise” that served to protect the gambling companies more than the players.
One male participant over 55 explained, “I don’t trust a lot of these so-called tools. I think indirectly they probably know that the actual participant will carry on doing it or even put some more funds into the gambling.”
Despite the skepticism, tools like deposit limits were acknowledged by some as useful in helping reduce harmful gambling behaviour.
Financial and Social Impact Highlighted by Participants
The report showed that the impacts of gambling harm are wide-ranging. Participants described cutting back on essentials such as food and utility bills, with some even borrowing money to cover basic needs after losing funds. One woman said, “I haven’t been able to go out anywhere or I’ve used the money for food [on gambling] where I’ve had to go and borrow money so I could eat.”
The damage extended beyond finances. Some respondents mentioned job losses, reduced academic focus, and even housing instability as consequences of their gambling habits. Importantly, the study found that gambling harm can begin at any stage — early on or after years of gambling.
While much of the research focused on the downsides, some participants did mention positive aspects. These included moments of pride, excitement from wins, and enhanced enjoyment of sporting events. Others described gambling as a social activity, sharing time with friends or family members at places like bingo halls.
A woman over 55 spoke about spending evenings with her granddaughter at the bingo club: “We’ll make a whole night of it… making it an enjoyable outing really.”
Senior analyst Amandeep Manku said the findings helped place individual stories into context, adding, “This research helps to contextualise those findings and broadens our understanding of gambling harms and vulnerability.”
The Gambling Commission concluded that support must be flexible and take into account both emotional and financial factors. It also recommended more in-depth research on gamblers’ experiences to guide future protections.
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