Gambling Harms in Scotland: New Insights

GambleAware has recently unveiled interactive maps that vividly depict the prevalence of gambling harms in various regions, both at the local authority and parliamentary levels. This groundbreaking insight comes as a result of the data collected during the Annual Great Britain Treatment and Support Survey conducted in November 2022. It's a part of a broader effort to address problem gambling and its associated consequences.

In a prior research publication in August, GambleAware highlighted the link between mental health issues and problem gambling behaviors. This insight underscores the importance of understanding the psychological aspects of gambling.

Scotland is at the forefront of this investigation, and the data reveals some concerning statistics. Only 16.7% of individuals with gambling problems in Scotland, as indicated by a Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) score of 1 or more, actually seek treatment. This percentage falls below the national average of 20.9% for Great Britain as a whole. Glasgow City, Dundee City, North Lanarkshire, Aberdeen City, and the City of Edinburgh have emerged as the five areas in Scotland with the highest estimated rates of problem gambling.

Delving deeper into the reasons behind seeking treatment, a substantial 29.2% of those with a PGSI score of 1 or more in Scotland cited financial difficulties as their primary motive. Shockingly, 12.6% revealed severe impacts such as job loss or homelessness as the driving force behind seeking help.

Surprisingly, 60.5% of the Scottish population took part in some form of gambling in 2022, slightly surpassing the national average for Great Britain, which stands at 60.3%. These numbers demonstrate the widespread nature of gambling activities in Scotland.

Zoë Osmond, GambleAware's chief executive, expressed deep concerns regarding the declining numbers of people seeking support in Scotland. She emphasized that gambling harms can affect anyone and stressed the need to address these issues on a local level. The charity's aim is to provide data and insights that can help meet the treatment and support needs of communities.

In response to the situation, GambleAware has announced its intention to respond to the UK government's consultation on a statutory gambling levy. This move would require operators to pay a mandatory gambling levy to the GB Gambling Commission, with the generated funds allocated for research, education, and treatment for gambling-related problems. It's a step towards tackling the issue at its roots and ensuring a safer gambling environment for all.