Interactive Maps Reveal Gambling Harms in Scotland

In a pioneering move to enhance awareness of gambling harms, GambleAware has introduced interactive maps, shedding light on the prevalence of gambling-related issues at the local authority and parliamentary constituency levels throughout Great Britain. These maps serve as a powerful tool for understanding the landscape of problem gambling and its impact on communities.

According to recent research, Scotland has shown some intriguing trends. The data reveals that only 16.7% of individuals in Scotland are reporting difficulties accessing treatment, support, or advice for their gambling issues. This figure is notably lower than the 20.9% average across Great Britain. Moreover, the proportion of people in Scotland seeking help for gambling problems (15.5%) is also below the national average (19.4%).

Financial struggles appear to be the predominant reason behind seeking help for gambling problems in Scotland, with 29.2% of cases citing this as their primary concern.

Furthermore, the research discloses that 60.5% of Scots engaged in various forms of gambling in 2022, slightly surpassing the Great Britain average of 60.3%. Glasgow City stands out with the highest rate of gambling-related issues in Scotland.

Zoë Osmond, the Chief Executive of GambleAware, expressed her concerns, stating, "Gambling harms can affect anyone, and we are concerned to see that fewer people are accessing treatment and support in Scotland. As the leading gambling harms charity in Great Britain, we've published these maps and data to provide information to help address treatment and support needs in local communities."

Osmond also highlighted the availability of resources for those who might be hesitant to seek help, stating, "Some people may not have reached out for help because they are unsure of where to find it, but anyone concerned about their gambling, or that of a loved one, can search GambleAware for free, confidential advice, tools, and support. The National Gambling Helpline is also available on 0808 8020 133 and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

This release of data coincides with the launch of a government consultation on a statutory gambling levy, further emphasizing the importance of addressing gambling-related issues in Scotland and beyond.