The annual survey conducted by UK charity GambleAware has uncovered concerning figures, revealing that approximately 1.65 million children are living with adults who are experiencing the effects of “problem gambling.” This groundbreaking study, titled the 2024 Treatment and Support Survey, sheds light on the impact of gambling harms on children and young people under 18 years old, highlighting the lasting effects that problem gambling can have on them.
The survey, conducted by YouGov, focused on gamblers who sought advice, support, and treatment, as well as individuals affected by those who gamble. Through interviews with over 18,000 British adults, including active and ex-gamblers, as well as online focus groups with those impacted by gambling, the study aimed to quantify the scale of the issue.
One alarming statistic revealed by the survey is that children exposed to gambling are four times more likely to develop problem gambling behaviors themselves. Additionally, the survey found that 44% of caregivers with problem gambling tendencies were at high risk of suicidal behavior, further emphasizing the severity of the issue.
In response to the survey findings, GambleAware has reiterated its call for action, including a ban on gambling marketing at sporting events and a pre-watershed ban on gambling-related TV ads. The charity also called for better health warnings on all gambling ads and urged for policy changes to protect children and young people from the harms of gambling.
Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, expressed her support for these initiatives, emphasizing the need for increased awareness of the impact of gambling on children and young people. De Souza highlighted the risks associated with online gambling, stating that exposure to gambling ads and online content can have long-term effects on young people’s mental, physical, and financial well-being.
The press release from GambleAware also featured a statement from Bianca Colclough, a mother with firsthand experience of problem gambling, who shared her journey of seeking support after realizing the potential harm her gambling habits could have on her children.
Despite efforts to combat problem gambling, the survey revealed that up to 130,000 ex-gamblers are still experiencing harms from previous gambling activities, with 1.2 million adult ex-gamblers reporting an urge to gamble again in the last six months. The industry body, the Betting and Gaming Council, highlighted that the majority of people in Britain gamble safely and responsibly, with its members donating significant amounts to services aimed at addressing problem gambling and gambling-related harm.
Overall, the survey findings underscore the urgent need for action to protect children and young people from the harmful effects of problem gambling and to address the broader societal impacts of gambling addiction. It is crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and the gambling industry to work together to implement effective measures to prevent and mitigate the negative consequences of problem gambling.