Sport is a fundamental part of the English culture with deep roots in the history and traditions of the country. It continues to play a vital role in shaping national identity and unites people from all walks of life with a shared passion that transcends age, politics, religion and region. Whether it’s the passion-filled football terraces or the elegant nature of the prestigious Wimbledon courts, there is a space in sport for anyone.
‘Football’s coming home’ has become a rallying crying for England, embodying fans hopes and dreams of national triumph on the global stage. During major football tournaments such as the European Championships and the World Cup, the phrase echoes across the nation, and truly ignites patriotism and a powerful sense of unity and comradery. Moments like these reveal the true beauty of sport and the unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life for one amazing sporting cause.
When watching sports, whether from the comfort of your home or at the stadium, gambling offers a way to heighten the excitement and raise the stakes of your beloved sports. For many fans, placing a bet adds that extra layer of excitement and thrill, allowing the viewers to feel more immersed in the game. Whether it is picking a winning horse, predicting a goal scorer or betting on a knockout, the allure of gambling lies in the chance of being able to win big.
Despite the significant role that sport plays in society, inspiring millions and embodying national pride, a much darker side has emerged: gambling addiction. As the popularity increases, so does the number of people betting. However, this rise also has meant those with problem gambling issues are enticed to bet. The passion previously explained can also have the drastic knock-on effect that can drive people into compulsive gambling, an issue that needs critical attention. The number of charitable organisations dealing with the issue is on the rise, with frequent protests against gambling at all major sporting events.
Within the UK, approximately 2.2 million people are at risk of experience problem gambling related harms, with 300,000 classified as problem gamblers. The consequences of gambling issues extend way beyond just financial issues, with 70% of problem gamblers suffering from depression and 50% with anxiety. These statistics showcase the huge prevalence of the issue within the UK how serious measures need to be put in place as in most cases, it is more than just wanting to bet.
Gordon Moody is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to providing residential treatment and support for gambling addiction. Founded in 1971, it offers unique retreat and counselling services to those struggling most with gambling addiction. The charity offers online support groups and provides tailored care for vulnerable demographics, such as women, who tend to not receive as much assistance.
Alyson Hughes, communications officer at Gordon Moody, emphasises the distinct differences between gambling-related harm and substance addiction, as well as the unique process they take.
“Gambling is more behavioural and cognitively based than substance addiction and our treatment programmes reflect that difference. Whilst someone entering treatment for alcohol or drug addiction may go through detox, those entering our treatment centres for gambling-related harm treatment are cut off from gambling the moment they walk through our doors.
Alyson went on to stress that: “There is no cure for gambling-related harms, our service users are taught how to abstain for the rest of their lives.”
Given the importance of sport and, by extension, gambling in the UK’s culture, a significant challenge has emerged related to cultural harm. Gambling’s normalisation may negatively affect people’s perceptions and experience on the topic, leading to potential harm within society. According to published research from Gov.uk, a review of 14 low to moderate quality qualitative studies revealed that gambling-related harm is significantly influenced by cultural norms. As of this, gamblers and their close associates experience additional harms, and due to the normalisation, these harms can be passed onto future generations.
Gordon Moody is aware of the pervasive cultural norm of gambling in the UK, where it is seen as a socially acceptable and a favourable past time. Despite its prevalence, Alyson explained how she is deeply concerned about the hidden nature of gambling addiction, which regularly goes unnoticed until it is too late. She also explains how public perception is not as strong on the topic, which is a huge worry.
“Gambling is often referred to as the ‘hidden addiction’. But unlike drink or drugs, a person suffering from gambling-related harms may show no outward physical signs of addiction.
“With most people able to gamble responsibly, popular perception is that people can just stop gambling whenever they want - that is very far from the truth.”
A report by the Standard Life Foundation revealed that currently there are over 10,000 gambling establishments across Britain. Notably, 21% of these venues are located in the most deprived areas, while only 2% are found within the wealthiest neighbourhoods. Additionally, researchers from the University of Liverpool discovered that sports betting companies generate 86% of their revenue from their biggest losers, with deprived areas more likely to bet on higher odds with a lower chance of winning. In addition, Gov.uk reports that while the most socio-economically deprived areas and disadvantage groups in England have the lowest rate of gambling participation, they experience the highest levels of problem gambling and are the most vulnerable to the associated harms.
Alyson acknowledged the escalating issue of problem gambling in deprived areas, but also stressed that anyone, regardless of their background can be susceptible to gambling problems.
“Many factors make people more susceptible to experiencing gambling-related harms, along with other addictions. These can include mental health diagnoses, learnt behaviour, and geographical location, along with a multitude of other reasons.
“Gambling-related harms do not discriminate; they can happen to anyone at any time.”
Alyson proudly stated that when tackling gambling addiction, Gordon Moody’s approach goes beyond merely stopping the act of gambling and that it also focuses on tackling the underlying causes and broader impact of the addiction. Gambling, much like drugs and alcohol, triggers the brains reward system, which leads to the destructive addiction.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists reported that people who gamble at harmful levels are significantly more likely to experience a range of serious mental health issues alongside. These include low self-esteem, stress-related disorders, anxiety, poor sleep and appetite, substance misuse problems, and depression. Gordon Moody’s holistic approach aims to not only help individuals harbouring onto a gambling addiction, but also addressing the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to the addiction, allowing for long-term recovery and well-being.
When speaking on Gordon Moody’s intensive work, she said: “Our programmes are delivered by highly qualified professionals, from accredited psychotherapists to clinical psychologists, who are trained and equipped to focus not only on gambling-related harms, but also on other addictions or mental and emotional health conditions.
“We carry out comprehensive assessments that help us integrate appropriate therapies into personalised treatment programmes which address each service user’s unique needs. Our programmes combine a wide range of specialist individual and group interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, integrative psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapies, creative and art therapies, and family therapy.
“Our recovery workers also have a variety of health and social care training and experience across housing, welfare benefits, advice and information, psychoeducation, teaching, and group work.”
A growing concern has been the large amounts of gambling advertisements that you see within sports coverage. A 2023 report from the University of Bristol found that 6,966 gambling messages were shown in six televised matches over the Premier League’s opening weekend. This had led to huge concerns amongst charities and fan communities, who are worried about the normality of the inclusion of these adverts.
Alyson addressed this ongoing conversation, explain how that this issue does not arise during their treatment but the first major step towards recovery begins when their patients leave the centre and have to ignore the constant advertisements.
“Research with our alumni revealed that those in active addiction may pay no notice to shirt sponsorship, stadium advertisements, or other advertising until such a time as they are looking for it.
“However, when our alumni leave the safe and supported environment of our treatment centres and re-enter the world, they are unable to escape the constant and ever-present advertising of gambling. This can be the first major step for them to get over as part of their ongoing recovery.”
In the UK, there is an ongoing debate about the government and the NHS’s commitment to properly addressing gambling addiction. Where efforts are made, concerns have been voiced regarding the funding allocated to gambling services, with many arguing that the current measures do not meet the demand. These shortages in return leads to overcrowded services and increased pressure on gambling charities and organisations to help combat.
When speaking on Gordon Moody’s services, Alyson highlighted how for years their applications for treatment have far exceeded their maximum capacity, showcasing the severity of the issue.
She stated: “Research in 2022 showed that an estimated 1.4 million people were experiencing gambling-related harms and that for every person who contacts the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN) for support, there are nearly 160 others who could benefit but don’t access the support and help they need.
“Applications for residential treatment at Gordon Moody have been around 1,000 per year for the last couple of years. Our current capacity per year is around 280 bed spaces.”
Statistics like these showcase the overwhelming need for this topic to be regularly discussed, as many charities are feeling overwhelmed by the significant attention they receive. Education and conversation on the topic is vital in the combat against gambling addiction.
If you, or anyone you know, is suffering from gambling-related harms – recovery is possible.
Applications for help can be made through gordonmoody.org.uk, you can also speak to an advisor by calling 01384 241292 or emailing: help@gordonmoody.org.uk
Comments