Posted on 17th April 2025
FSA backs latest GambleAware drive on gambling harms
The FSA is backing GambleAware’s latest drive to tackle stigma around gambling addiction, as the national charity calls for greater action on gambling-related harms.
A new survey by GambleAware, conducted by the polling firm YouGov, shows that two thirds of the country (67%) believe there is a serious stigma around gambling harms and the charity warns that ‘anyone could be at risk of harm’ from gambling, including children.
GambleAware are calling for further regulation on gambling advertising as their polling also illustrates the public’s concern around the amount of gambling being advertised across the country.
Almost one-in-three (31%) said they recall seeing their first gambling advert before the age of 17, and 62% of the public say that gambling advertising is ‘everywhere’.
GambleAware says the problem of gambling harms is growing among young adults and children – with as many as 85,000 children already at risk, doubling since 2023.
Gambling can grip anyone.
Alongside our partners @AskNationwide @WeAreTheFSA, the NGSN and 20 other organisations, we’re calling for more gambling advertising regulation and a national conversation, to reduce the gambling harm stigma that prevents people from seeking help. pic.twitter.com/b2RyfzwXMk
— GambleAware (@gambleawaregb) April 16, 2025
Zoë Osmond OBE, chief executive of GambleAware, said: “Now is the time to have a national conversation about gambling harm. Only by encouraging an open dialogue can we empower people to seek the support they need without judgement.
“Our daily lives are inundated with gambling advertising and marketing, normalising what is a risky activity which can have a huge negative effect on people’s lives, even children.”
The FSA have been supporting GambleAware’s work on gambling since the start of the 2019-20 season and the issue of gambling harms remains an important issue for supporters around the country.
FSA deputy chief executive David Rose said: “We know there are lots of fans out there who enjoy placing a bet at the weekend and celebrating their winnings with mates – but harm from gambling is a very real issue in this country affecting millions, and the sad reality is that many don’t feel able to open up and talk about the difficult side of the experience.
“Football should be a fun and welcoming environment for all fans, but you can’t escape gambling advertising and sponsorship – you see it on shirts, in stadiums, on TV – and that only increases the risk of harm.
“That’s why we’re committed to supporting GambleAware’s campaign, because we really need to open up the conversation and encourage people to get support if they need it – there’s no shame in asking for help.”
