The National Health Service (NHS) has reported a staggering increase in gambling addiction referrals in England, with numbers from April to September 2024 more than double those of the same period in 2023. Almost 2,000 people were referred to gambling clinics, compared to 800 referrals during the corresponding months in 2023.
NHS initiatives against gambling garms
Since 2019, the NHS has opened 15 specialist gambling clinics across England, acknowledging the rising need in this area. Seven of these clinics opened barely a year ago, offering a ray of hope for addicts and their families. Staffed by multidisciplinary teams of psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health nurses, and individuals who have themselves conquered gambling addiction, the breadth of expertise ensures a holistic approach to assessment and treatment.
The NHS has streamlined self-referral processes, making it easier for individuals to access help. Partnerships with local GP practices further enhance the accessibility of these life-saving services. Startling data reveals that over a quarter of 11–17-year-olds in England have gambled with their own money in the past year. This trend poses significant risks for the mental and financial well-being of future generations.
Concerns over rise in gambling addiction
Dr. Matt Gaskell, head of the NHS Northern Gambling Service, warns that the festive season is a particularly vulnerable time. With the backdrop of sporting events, financial pressure, and the lure of advertising, it could lead to a perfect storm of dangerous or risky behaviour.
Dr. Gaskell stated, “People may receive extra money as gifts or bonuses during the holiday period, or find that money is short, and could be tempted to place a bet, ending up betting more than they intended. With the barrage of adverts promoting festive fixtures, races, and offers, such as free Christmas bets, it can look enticing, but these tend to encourage people to bet at high frequency.”
He further added, “I have seen first-hand at my clinic how the festive period can lead to additional gambling harms. If you’re worried about how gambling is affecting you, I urge you to please come forward to our clinics by self-referring or speak to your GP practice.”
Claire Murdoch, NHS national director for mental health, emphasises the need for gambling firms to curb addiction. She urges these firms to prioritise ethics over profits, considering the human cost of their practices.
Murdoch stated, “Addiction is a cruel disease that can take over and ruin lives. NHS England has almost doubled the number of specialist clinics available in the space of a year, so if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, please come forward.”
She added, “The NHS cannot be left alone to pick up the ills caused by firms engaging in activities that fuel addiction. These companies should think hard about the potential harms to people behind their profits.”
There are about 138,000 people labelled as problem gamblers, with another 1.3 million at moderate or low risk. Yet experts suggest the real number could be much larger. While the NHS has invested significantly to expand services, demand continues to rise, stretching resources thin. It will take systemic and community support to manage this crisis.
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