GambleAware, the independent UK gambling charity, has called for an end to the stigma surrounding problem gambling and is encouraging those who may be experiencing gambling harms to ‘open up about gambling’. 

The charity has launched this campaign with the support of research data and influential voices who are sharing their experiences and perspectives on the issue. 

The data from GambleAware’s research has revealed that 64% of adults who have ever experienced any problem with gambling have never spoken to anyone about it, 39% of whom have said they have not spoken about it owing to pervasive stigma.  

Research also showed that most of the public believes that games such as instant win games are addictive, highlighting how gambling harm can affect anyone and underlining how important it is for people to show empathy for those experiencing harm. 

In total, 76% of those who have opened up did report feeling better after they had spoken to someone with regards to gambling problems. From this, GambleAware has aimed to show the power of talking and how help is always available for those who need it. 

Chief Executive of GambleAware, Zoë Osmond, said: “It’s alarming to see the number of people who are struggling in isolation. As a hidden addiction, gambling harms can be incredibly hard to spot from the outside.

"It is therefore critical that people impacted are aware of the wide range of support services available, and that they feel safe to come forward. Anyone can be impacted by gambling harms, but the first step is to open up and have that first conversation, ideally as early as possible.”