One in four Scots 'know someone who has experienced gambling problems'

New data reveals one in four Scots know someone who has experienced gambling problems, as a charity urges people who are struggling to seek support.

New data from YouGov, commissioned by the charity GamCare, has shown that around a quarter (26%) of people in Scotland think they know someone who has previously or currently experiences problems with gambling.

The survey of over 4,000 UK adults also found that, of those who were aware of someone else having an issue with gambling, three in ten people (30%) said that it had a direct negative impact on them, including financial, emotional, and practical implications.

GamCare is the operator and founder of the National Gambling Helpline, which offers free and confidential support 24 hours a day.

The charity also provides free treatment services across Glasgow, Edinburgh, North Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire as part of the National Gambling Support Network.

The survey also found 7% of people who gamble in Scotland say they have hidden gambling-related financial issues from others. Data also showed 18% say they sometimes feel guilty about the way they gamble or what happens when they gamble.

Lorraine Hannah, outreach and engagement practitioner, said: “With around a quarter of people in Scotland having known someone who has experienced issues with gambling, we believe it is important people know where they can turn if they need support.

“Our services also help those who have concerns about someone else’s gambling, such as family members and friends, and we want anyone struggling to know they can access free, non-judgemental support.

“Gambling harm can have serious impacts on people’s mental health, finances, relationships, and stress levels, and we’re here to support anyone struggling if they need it. Reach out to us at any time on 0808 8020 133 for free and confidential support, where you can also get a referral into our treatment services, or visit gamcare.org.uk/scotland.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “We share the concerns expressed by many around the harmful impact of gambling.

“We are working with Public Health Scotland to explore how people experiencing gambling-related harms are able to access the right support and treatment.”