UKGC Reaffirms Commitment to Reducing Gambling Harm

By Simon Wright, Last updated Jan 28, 2021

The UK Gambling Commission have today reaffirmed their commitment to reducing gambling harm. This has come about after details of a  research study performed by the University of Swansea was released,  which revealed that gambling addicts are more than eight times likely to attempt to take their own lives, compared with the general population.

The latest research carried out by the team at the University of Swansea, forms part of the Gambling Commission’s research programme for the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms.  With the research being commissioned by the charity, GambleAware.

Neil McArthur, chief executive of the Gambling Commission, said: “This research is based on data from 2007 but nonetheless the findings clearly show a connection between suicide and gambling, something that has a real and devastating impact on people’s lives. Whilst further research and more timely data collection is essential, we are taking further action now to protect people from the risk of gambling harm.”

“As a result of this research, the Commission and Samaritans will work together to bolster the existing requirements on gambling businesses to identify those at risk and take action to address and reduce harm.”

“However, progress cannot be made by us alone, we need to work together to implement the priorities outlined in the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms, and the key recommendations of this research. This is vital to ensuring we have the best research, prevention and treatment services available for vulnerable individuals, their families, friends and communities.”

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