GambleAware has released its annual statistics, revealing that 6,645 individuals reached out to the National Gambling Treatment Service (NGTS) between April 2022 and March 2023. Of these, 5,621 people (85%) received treatment from NGTS, while the remaining 15% received support for the impact of someone else’s gambling. Among those seeking treatment, 37.9% were related to online slots, followed by internet sports betting at 15.6%. Fixed-odds gaming machines in bookmaker shops accounted for 12.8%, and sports betting and gaming machines in bookmakers each made up 10.1% of cases. Overall, 67.2% of consumers seeking treatment were dealing with some form of online gambling.
Regarding the demographics of those seeking help, 75% of the individuals contacting GambleAware and NGTS were under the age of 75. The highest number of clients fell within the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, comprising 38% of the total. 69% of clients identified as male. In terms of ethnic backgrounds, 90% were of white ethnicity, while 6% were Asian or Asian British, 3% were black or black British, and 2% were mixed race. The majority of clients (72%) were employed, while individuals with long-term disabilities or illness accounted for 12%. 9% were unemployed, 2% were retired, 2% were taking care of family or home and not working, and 1% were students.
GambleAware also highlighted the success of their treatment programs, with 64% of clients completing their courses. Although slightly lower than the five-year average of 67%, 88% of those who completed treatment reported an improvement in their behavior. The proportion of individuals experiencing “problem gambling” decreased from 86% at the start of treatment to 13% after completion. Additionally, 28% dropped out of treatment before completion, compared to 30% in the previous year. The remaining clients were either referred to other services or discharged following assessment without receiving treatment. Regarding appointment scheduling, 50% of clients were seen within five days of contact, and this increased to 75% within a nine-day period.
In light of the statistics, GambleAware’s chief commissioning and strategy officer, Anna Hargrave, emphasized the value of the prevention-focused approach taken by their network and the importance of investing in early treatment. Hargrave also highlighted the potential larger prevalence of harmful gambling, as indicated by recent figures from the Gambling Commission.
On another note, GambleAware urged caution with the plans for a statutory levy on gambling operators. This levy, proposed in the government’s Gambling Act white paper, would require operators to contribute a set amount to the Gambling Commission to fund research, education, and treatment for gambling harms. While GambleAware supports the levy, their CEO, Zoë Osmond, expressed concern about the potential risk it poses to third-sector services. Osmond called for reassurance from the government to protect these essential services and preserve the vast experience and expertise of the National Gambling Support Network and the wider third sector.
