GamCare warns of increased gambling harm during Christmas

Ahead of the festive holidays, GamCare has warned people with gambling issues to be extra careful not to endanger themselves further.

A YouGov survey, commissioned by the gambling charity and focusing on more than 4,000 UK adults suffering from problem gambling, has shown that three-fifths (59%) of those prone to gambling harms say they are more likely to gamble at Christmas than the rest of year – a 37% increase from 2023.

Additional insights from the survey highlight that 53% of people gambling at harmful levels have spent money – otherwise needed for food, presents, or other seasonal expenses – on gambling. 

Again, 53% of surveyed respondents report an increase in stress or anxiety levels due to gambling, while 56% say that gambling has made them more isolated. 

GamCare has put its own advisers on standby to help anyone who might need support during the holidays, and its National Gambling Helpline remains open for people with gambling issues or those close to them who might be suffering indirectly as a result. 

Mark Weiss, Deputy Chief Executive at GamCare, said: “The festive period can be a difficult time for those struggling with gambling, but it can also provide a good opportunity to open up about the issues you’re facing. 

“Our new research shows that there has been an increase in people who already have gambling issues saying they are more likely to gamble over the festive period than at other times of the year. 

“GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline provides free confidential support 24/7, 365 days of the year – including Christmas Day and the whole of the festive season. There are many ways you can get support, whether it’s calling an Adviser or using our live chat and WhatsApp features in case you are concerned about privacy while family and friends are around.” 

Meanwhile, Germany has taken a different approach to their holiday awareness campaign, warning players of the risks of gambling with illegal operators instead. 

In its statement to the public, the country’s gambling regulator, Glücksspielbehörde (GGL), acknowledged that the Christmas period is a time when people tend to have more free time or be under more stress, which gambling providers look to capitalise on by increasing their marketing efforts and bonus incentives. 

This is where the customer needs to show self-initiative and be mindful of the gambling platform they’re using, the GGL added, as illegal providers are also adept at using similar tactics, attracting unsuspecting pundits and putting them at risk of fraud and legal consequences. 

By using the services of an illegal gambling provider, the player enters a realm far away from Germany’s regulatory jurisdiction that can freely manipulate games, doesn’t have player protection as a priority, and can sell personal data to various bad actors. 

To avoid that, players can go on the regulator’s website where all legal and licensed operators in Germany have been listed in a whitelist.  

“Play safely and informed,” the GGL’s message concluded.