One of the many hidden issues which have come out into the open since the pandemic lockdown ended has been the growth in online gambling.
While for most, going to the dogs or visiting the races can be a bit of fun, for some it is a serious problem. Whereas, in days gone by, placing a bet meant physically ringing a bookie, or visiting a betting shop, now it is all too easy to lose thousands – even tens of thousands – of pounds in a matter of hours gambling online. The mounting debts, so often hidden by those addicted to betting, can cause family breakdowns, homelessness and, in the worse cases, suicide. It is increasingly clear that the Gambling Act 2005 is an analogue law in a digital age and this is why the Government is considering how to update it.
Last week I met Barry, a former gambler who has seen the harm gambling can bring to families, and who has dedicated his life to helping those who are in the grip of the addiction. Barry has been behind the formation of Brentwood’s Gambler’s Anonymous (GA) group eleven years ago, as well as other local GA groups in Upminster, Loughton and Gidea Park.
Barry’s concern for those who are on the edge of losing everything is palpable. Families of those who have been to his groups have told me he can spot someone who is at risk, and will ring them regularly to talk about the fears and shame they feel about their addiction and debts, in a way it is difficult to do with someone who is not in the grip of the addiction of gambling. If they don’t pick up the phone, Barry goes to their house and knocks on the door until they answer and he is sure they are safe.
This is vital work – but it is people like Barry and other recovering gamblers who bring their experiences to the GA meetings to help others find their way through the fear, are the ones who make a huge immediate difference to gabling addicts and their families. It is right that their work does not go unnoticed.
If you want to get in touch with GA visit https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/find-a-meeting
