NHS bosses have issued urgent warnings about the surge of gambling addiction, particularly during the Boxing Day holiday, as enticing betting advertisements proliferate coinciding with high-profile sports events.
The latest statistics suggest demand for gambling addiction treatment is skyrocketing, with referrals to clinics soaring almost 130% within the span of just one year. This alarming increase has prompted health officials to rally awareness as the festive season approaches, emphasizing the risks associated with the barrage of sports betting promotions.
This Boxing Day will feature 20 Premier League matches along with significant horse racing events, creating what experts describe as a "perfect storm" of temptation for those vulnerable to gambling addiction. Dr. Matt Gaskell, head of the NHS Northern Gambling Service, noted, “People may receive extra money as gifts or bonuses during the holiday period, or find money short, which could tempt them to place bets and result in overspending.”
These apprehensions come alongside data depicting nearly 2,000 individuals referred to gambling clinics between April and September this year, up from just over 800 during the same time frame last year. To combat this growing issue, NHS England has doubled the number of specialized gambling clinics from eight to 15 over the past year, indicating the urgency of the situation.
Claire Murdoch, NHS national director for mental health, stressed the seriousness of gambling addiction, stating, “Addiction is a cruel disease. The NHS cannot be left alone to pick up the ills caused by firms engaging in activities fueling addiction. Companies should carefully evaluate the potential harms behind their profits.”
Currently, approximately 138,000 individuals are grappling with gambling problems, as indicated by statistics from the Gambling Commission, and about 1.3 million more engage with moderate to low-risk gambling activities. Some estimates even suggest these figures could be conservative. Alarmingly, recent surveys reveal more than 25% of young people aged 11 to 17 have spent their own money on gambling activities over the past year.
NHS England's specialized clinics, established since 2019, provide therapy and support not just for individuals grappling with addiction, but also for family members and caregivers who are impacted by loved ones' gambling issues. The clinics employ various skilled professionals, including psychologists, therapists, and mental health nurses, to cater to the growing need for effective support.
The festive season, marked with numerous sporting events and aggressive advertising for gambling, poses distinct challenges. Dr. Gaskell emphasized how, “With the barrage of adverts promoting festive fixtures, races, and offers like free Christmas bets, it’s easy to see why people feel encouraged to frequently wager.”
Many experts are sounding alarms about the strategies employed by betting firms, including free promotional bets and their presence on sporting gear and media. Claire Murdoch highlighted how the pervasive gambling advertisements during significant sports broadcasts lead many to gamble beyond their means. “The 24/7 gambling industry is causing ever-increasing harms. The NHS is tackling an uphill battle to provide the necessary care for those affected,” she said.
Recent governmental initiatives propose implementing new statutory levies on gambling profits, aiming to generate £100 million annually for research dedicated to gambling prevention and treatment. This move could offer much-needed support for those affected by gambling issues.
Organizations like GambleAware echo the NHS's concerns, emphasizing the holiday season as particularly difficult for habitual gamblers. “Christmas can be challenging for many individuals, and with so many sports fixtures, gambling advertisements can make it especially tough,” said Zoë Osmond, the charity’s chief executive.
The National Gambling Support Network is likewise witnessing increased demand, having treated nearly 11,000 individuals this year alone—12% more than the previous year. Meanwhile, the National Gambling Helpline has fielded approximately 55,000 calls annually, reflecting the urgent need for support services.
Internationally, gambling addiction is recognized as a growing public health threat. The Lancet medical journal recently underscored betting as not just causing personal damage but also contributing to broader societal issues such as domestic violence and job loss.
The imperative to tackle gambling addiction is echoed by public health advocates globally. Several helplines are available to those struggling with gambling problems, underscoring the international recognition of gambling-related challenges and the necessity for support. Those seeking assistance can turn to various organizations across the UK, US, Australia, and beyond for professional help.
