NHS Reports Increase in Gambling Addiction Referrals

The National Health Service (NHS) in England has reported a significant surge in gambling addiction referrals, with numbers more than doubling over the past year.

Between April and September 2024, nearly 2,000 individuals sought help from gambling clinics, a sharp increase from approximately 800 during the same period in 2023.

To address this growing need, the NHS has expanded its network of specialist gambling clinics to 15 facilities across England since 2019, including seven new clinics opened in the past year. These centres provide comprehensive care through multidisciplinary teams comprising psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health nurses, and individuals with lived experience of gambling addiction.

Dr. Matt Gaskell, Head of the NHS Northern Gambling Service, raised particular concerns about the holiday season, describing it as a “perfect storm” for those at risk due to the combination of sporting events and financial pressures.

Key Insight: According to recent Gambling Commission data, around 138,000 people in England may be experiencing problem gambling, with an additional 1.3 million engaging in moderate or low-risk gambling behaviors.

Dr. Gaskell explained: “During the holiday period, people may receive extra money from gifts or bonuses, or face financial shortfalls, leading them to gamble and potentially spend more than intended. The abundance of advertisements promoting festive fixtures, races, and offers like free Christmas bets makes gambling appear attractive but often encourages high-frequency betting. I’ve seen firsthand how this time of year can amplify gambling-related harms.”

Claire Murdoch, the NHS National Director for Mental Health, stressed the critical nature of gambling addiction and called for greater accountability from the industry. She stated, “The NHS cannot bear the full burden of addressing the harms caused by companies driving addictive behavior. These firms must seriously consider the human cost behind their profits.”