Harm from problem gambling in UK may be eight times higher than thought, research finds

Largest ever survey of its kind reveals estimated 2.5% of British adults have struggled with problem gambling

The scale of harm done by gambling in Britain could be as much as eight times higher than previously thought, according to the largest ever survey into the impact of the industry.

An estimated 2.5% of British adults have struggled with “problem gambling”, according to new research. This would equate to 1.3 million people, though its authors cautioned there was a risk that the data could be an overestimate.

In the UK, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international suicide helplines can be found at www.befrienders.org.