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Two in Three People Experiencing Gambling Problems Keep Issue Hidden
As many as 2 in 3 adults (64%) in Great Britain who have experienced any gambling problem have kept their experience hidden, new research from GambleAware has revealed. With almost 2 in 5 (39%) of those who hadn’t opened up stating feelings of stigma such as shame, guilt and fear of judgement represent key barriers to reaching out for support – the charity is issuing a call to end damaging stigma and encourage those who may be experiencing gambling harms to “open-up about gambling”.
Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, said: “It’s alarming to see the number of people who are struggling in isolation. As a hidden addiction, gambling harms can be incredibly hard to spot from the outside. It is therefore critical that people impacted are aware of the wide range of support services available, and that they feel safe to come forward. Anyone can be impacted by gambling harms, but the first step is to open up and have that first conversation, ideally as early as possible.”
The campaign launch comes as research also suggests that most of the public believe certain gambling products, such as instant win games, are addictive, indicating how gambling harm can affect anyone and the importance of building empathy for those experiencing harm. Specifically, over seven in ten (71%) respondents said they believe instant win games are very or fairly addictive, followed by 64% for scratch cards and 62% for casino games.
Noteworthy football commentator Clive Tyldesley said: “I think that since I’ve started to work with charities and meet and talk with both people who gambled which were in recovery and bereaved family members, the thing that has struck me is how normal and unremarkable their backgrounds invariably are. Harmful gambling really can affect anyone and very often those suffering show no outward signs of their issues. It’s a silent, invisible problem because too often the gamblers disappear into their own feelings of embarrassment and guilt. They think they’re to blame when they are not, they think they’re alone when many others are wrestling with the same issues. Getting them to open up and talk is half the battle to beating the problem, either with people close to them or via the professional support the GambleAware website offers. The first conversation is maybe the most difficult but it’s the most soothing and the most important too.”
Professor Dame Clare Gerada said: “When I opened the doors of the nation’s first Primary Care Gambling Service a few short years ago, I was a relative newcomer to the challenges surrounding gambling. However, since then, my eyes have been thoroughly opened.
“Gambling is an addiction which can only be described as ‘uniquely’ awful: the ruin it wreaks on people’s lives can be complete and multi-layered; the collateral damage is also considerable as families and loved ones suffer alongside. Its inherently hidden nature means that, at the moment, people have to see their lives collapse around them before they get the help they desperately need. It doesn’t need to be like this. There is an incredible breadth of support service, from how to deal with debt, to how to stop gambling completely which people can access for free through the National Gambling Support Network, and I urge anyone concerned about their gambling to do so.”
Positively, the research also supports the benefits of opening up, as three out of four (76%) who had talked about their problems stated they felt better after speaking to someone. With gambling harms often manifesting as intrinsically “hidden” and isolating, GambleAware is aiming to bring to the surface the power of conversations and provide reassurance that help is never far.
The campaign has been developed in close collaboration with the gambling harms lived experienced community, and is supported by a range of expert and influential voices including ex-Love Islander Scott Thomas, who has previously experienced gambling harms.
Scott Thomas, Entrepreneur and Presenter, said: “It’s an incredibly scary thing to first tell someone that you’ve got a gambling problem. Many people assume it’s just because you can’t handle your money, but it needs to be viewed as seriously as any other mental health condition. I was terrified when I first opened up about the problems I had been having but, once I did, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders and I no longer had to hide. I want the same to happen for anyone out there who feels like they might be struggling on their own.”
There is a vast range of resources available and anyone who is worried that gambling might be affecting themselves or someone they love are encouraged to use the self-assessment tool to get free and confidential support tailored to them and their specific needs.
Elissa Hubbard, who has lived experience of gambling harms, said: “Every day was full of anxiety – trying to keep my gambling a secret, whilst finding opportunities to do it more. People think you can ‘just stop’, but you can’t… it’s so easy to be dismissed, and I didn’t want anyone to think bad of me. Finding help changed everything. I discovered that by keeping quiet, it helps no one, and when you start to talk about it, people start to understand you.”
GambleAware has also created tools to help users calculate the time and money spent gambling, served with recommendations in line with the internationally proven Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines. These are expected to become available from early December as part of a soft launch on the GambleAware website.
Dr Ellie Cannon, medical expert and commentator, said: “Gambling harms – or the negative consequences of gambling – are a complex issue that goes far beyond just financial challenges. It can lead to poor mental health, physical health, and relationships break down. They way these issues manifest will vary from person to person, but being aware and recognising the early warning signs of spending increasing amounts of time, money and hiding your gambling can help get people to a better place, sooner.”
Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew said: “Too often we see the devastating impacts of harmful gambling, and our white paper outlines a host of new measures we’re implementing to protect those most at risk. A key element of our plans is the introduction of a statutory levy on gambling companies to raise sufficient, sustainable and trusted funding for research, prevention and treatment of gambling related harm. Stigma is the biggest barrier preventing people from seeking help, and I welcome GambleAware’s vital campaign which is raising awareness of the issue and helping people get the support they need.”
Will Bolton, Editor of G3 has been named the first ‘David Orrick Journalist of the Year’. Presented at ICE Barcelona by Clarion Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter, the Award has been created in memory of respected gambling industry writer David Orrick who passed in September 2024 aged 75.
Making the presentation, Stuart Hunter said: “Last year the industry sadly lost one of its most ardent and articulate supporters with the passing of David Orrick. David worked in the industry first as a journalist editing trade title EuroSlot and then heading-up PR and media relations for a raft of internationally recognised gambling brands.
“From the moment he joined the industry in 1995 he participated in our events first as a journalist and then as an exhibitor handling comms for many of the land-based sector’s best known manufacturers.
“David was a formidable personality steeped in the industry, highly knowledgeable and internationally respected. When David shared his opinion you listened and took note of his insights. He was a true ‘critical friend’ and made important contributions to the success of our brands not least ICE which he supported with a passion. He is greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
“In David’s honour and having consulted with his family we decided to launch a special award which carries his name. The David Orrick Journalist Of The Year Award recognises the talent and dedication which exists within the community of writers who report on the industry. Often overlooked, they provide an essential service helping to bring together games creators and providers with consumer-facing brands.
“To launch the David Orrick Award we invited publishers to nominate one of their star writers. From what was an extremely high quality short list a judging panel comprising members of the Clarion team identified our inaugural winner. Described by our judges as being extremely talented, diligent, easy to build a rapport with incisive and knowledgeable. I am delighted to confirm G3’s Will Bolton as the winner of the inaugural David Orrick Journalist of the Year.”
David’s son James Davidson reflected: “David lived and breathed the industry with everything that he had. It wasn’t a job , it was a way of life and something that he cherished dearly. David is hugely missed but he would be undoubtedly proud of the fact that his work and commitment to the industry has been valued. This Award would be something he would have hugely endorsed and shared avidly with the winners. Thank you for creating an award that shares and recognises David’s work.”
The post Will Bolton named ‘David Orrick Journalist of the Year’ at ICE Barcelona appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Toshi.bet Expands in Crypto Gambling Market with Instant Withdrawals and Privacy-Focused Gaming
Toshi.bet introduces a streamlined crypto gambling experience with instant transactions, no KYC requirements, and tailored deposit bonuses.
Toshi.bet, a growing cryptocurrency casino, is expanding its presence in the online gambling industry with a focus on instant withdrawals, privacy, and a broad selection of gaming options. Operating as a no-KYC platform, Toshi.bet provides players with an alternative to traditional online casinos by leveraging blockchain-backed security and provably fair gaming.
Key Features of Toshi.bet
- Notable Growth in the Crypto Casino Sector – Toshi.bet has seen an increase in its user base, with thousands of players engaging in its gaming platform daily.
- Instant Deposits & Withdrawals – The platform supports Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and various other cryptocurrencies, enabling near-instant, fee-free transactions.
- Privacy-Focused Gaming – With no KYC requirements, Toshi.bet offers users the ability to place bets while maintaining their anonymity.
- Deposit Bonuses & Reward Programs – Players can access tailored deposit bonuses of up to 200%, free spins, and rakeback rewards.
- Diverse Game Selection – The platform features a variety of gaming options, including slots, live casino, Plinko, dice, and other blockchain-optimized games.
The post Toshi.bet Expands in Crypto Gambling Market with Instant Withdrawals and Privacy-Focused Gaming appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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PopOK Gaming Introduces Poly Live Casino Studio by Alec Monopoly, Featuring Poly Blackjack & Poly Roulette
PopOK Gaming, a leading innovator in the iGaming industry, is pleased to announce the launch of the groundbreaking Poly Live Casino Studio by world-renowned street artist Alec Monopoly.
This one-of-a-kind live casino experience merges the excitement of classic table games with Monopoly’s signature artistic flair, offering an electrifying new dimension to online gaming.
The Poly Live Casino Studio introduces two premium live dealer games – Poly Blackjack and Poly Roulette – delivering an unparalleled fusion of art, entertainment, and immersive gameplay. Featuring exclusive designs by Alec Monopoly, the studio is set to captivate players with its bold visuals and dynamic atmosphere, transforming traditional casino gaming into a work of art.
A Live Casino Experience Like No Other
The Poly Live Casino Studio is a fully interactive, high-energy gaming environment where players can engage with professional dealers in real time. Designed to reflect Alec Monopoly’s iconic street art style, every element of the studio – from the tables to the backdrops – exudes creativity and luxury.
- Poly Blackjack: A fresh take on the timeless classic, featuring a customized table design with bold, colorful artwork and dynamic visuals that elevate the traditional roulette experience. Players can enjoy all the standard inside and outside bets, complemented by an electrifying atmosphere inspired by Monopoly’s signature art.
- Poly Roulette: This exclusive Blackjack table offers a seamless combination of strategy and style. With a fully immersive studio setting and high-quality streaming, players can engage in classic Blackjack gameplay while surrounded by a unique artistic backdrop. The game maintains all standard rules while offering an elevated, collector’s edition feel.
A Collaboration That Redefines Gaming
Alec Monopoly, known for his vibrant and unconventional artistic expressions, brings his signature touch to the live casino space in collaboration with PopOK Gaming. This partnership pushes the boundaries of iGaming by blending fine art with cutting-edge technology, offering players a gaming experience that is as visually striking as it is thrilling.
Elevating the Future of Live Casino Gaming
The launch of the Poly Live Casino Studio marks a new era for live dealer games, where creativity and gaming converge to create a uniquely engaging atmosphere. With PopOK Gaming’s cutting-edge technology and Monopoly’s artistic brilliance, this live casino experience is set to redefine industry standards.
The Poly Live Casino Studio is now available for operators worldwide, bringing a visually stunning and highly interactive gaming experience to players across multiple platforms.
For more information about Poly Blackjack, Poly Roulette, and the Poly Live Casino Studio, visit popokgaming.com.
The post PopOK Gaming Introduces Poly Live Casino Studio by Alec Monopoly, Featuring Poly Blackjack & Poly Roulette appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Will Bolton named ‘David Orrick Journalist of the Year’ at ICE Barcelona
Toshi.bet Expands in Crypto Gambling Market with Instant Withdrawals and Privacy-Focused Gaming
PopOK Gaming Introduces Poly Live Casino Studio by Alec Monopoly, Featuring Poly Blackjack & Poly Roulette
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