The second Annual GB Treatment and Support Survey, conducted by YouGov, revealed that 2.4% of adults in Great Britain are classified as problem gamblers. Problem gamblers are defined as individuals who gamble with negative consequences and a possible loss of control. This figure is similar to the findings from the first edition of the survey.
The survey also highlighted a decrease in overall gambling participation at the national level. The proportion of non-gamblers has increased from 39% to 44%. On the other hand, the number of non-problem gamblers has decreased from 48% to 44%, while the number of low-risk gamblers has reduced from 7.2% to 6.4%. The categories of moderate risk and problem gamblers also saw slight decreases in size, moving from 3.3% to 3.1% and from 2.7% to 2.4% respectively. However, it is important to note that GambleAware considers these changes to be statistically insignificant.
One positive finding of the survey is the reported increase in the usage of treatment services, which rose from 43% to 53%. Furthermore, the use of support and advice among problem gamblers has increased from 39% to 48%. This demonstrates a growing awareness and willingness to seek help for gambling-related issues.
The survey also examined the use of remote treatment, advice, and support. Interestingly, 44% of respondents believed that accessing these services online was better than doing so in a face-to-face setting, while 38% felt it was comparable. Reasons cited for favoring online treatment included factors such as discretion, convenience, and a reduced sense of overwhelm or embarrassment during sessions.
However, the survey also identified certain barriers preventing problem gamblers from accessing treatment, advice, or support. These barriers include concerns over stigma, the perception of services being inaccessible, and practical challenges such as privacy and shared devices within households.
In terms of seeking treatment, advice, or support, the survey revealed that 59% of problem gamblers expressed a desire for some form of assistance. Motivations for seeking these services included knowing that support was available through specific channels, awareness of easy access to support, and confidence in the confidentiality of treatment and support.
Zoë Osmond, the chief executive of GambleAware, expressed encouragement at the year-on-year increase in problem gamblers seeking help, particularly during the pandemic. These survey results will be utilized to inform GambleAware’s new commissioning strategy as they strive to enhance the provision and accessibility of gambling support services. Osmond’s appointment as chief executive occured in January of this year, succeeding former chief executive Marc Etches.
The second Annual GB Treatment and Support survey, commissioned in November of last year, aims to identify the barriers, uptake, and demand for treatment and support regarding gambling harms in Great Britain.
