Problem Gambling Statistics in the UK vs Other Countries
The casino industry has seen significant growth in recent years, leading to the launch of innovative games and an influx of players. Concerns over gambling addiction have equally increased, and as more players are seeking support for problem behaviours, organisations like the NHS raise awareness of gambling-related risks. Our team decided to examine the link between recent industry growth and addiction. For a more accurate analysis, we’ll discuss recent UK problem gambling statistics and how these compare to other countries.
Breaking Down Recent Gambling Statistics
Gambling is a popular pastime in the United Kingdom. However, it’s vital to acknowledge that whether casual or habitual, it comes with risks that may extend beyond financial losses. Whether you’re a regular or occasional player, staying aware of the problem is the first step towards preventing it. This especially refers to young people between 18 and 24, as national statistical bodies record alarming projections.
As for the families, understanding gambling stats helps families recognize early warning signs and offer timely support if needed.
Reported Data in the UK vs Overseas
Several reputable organisations have conducted recent research on gambling addictions in Europe. For example, the UK Gambling Commission published its annual report on problem gambling in July 2024.
Outside the UK, in early 2024 Germany released a Deutsche Hauptstelle für Suchtfragen (DHS), detailing statistics on gambling harm and how more young people are affected.
The Italian Consiglio Nazionale dei Giovani – Agenzia Italiana per la Gioventù has also drawn up a gambling-related report in 2024, highlighting increasing problem behaviours with more alarming numbers surrounding younger players in a survey conducted in 2022.
Across the Atlantic, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction released a report in 2024 showing similar results: it is the younger people that are more at risk of developing an addiction.
The table below shows findings on gambling disorders in the UK, Germany, Italy, and Canada. Though the game choices differ, all countries lean towards a preference for online gambling.
| Country | Percentage of Population (All Ages) | Age Group With the Most Gamblers | Game Preferences | Online or Offline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK | 0.4% | 18 to 24 | Sports betting & casino | 70% online, 30% offline |
| Germany | 0.6% | 18 to 24 | Slot machines & online poker | 60% online, 40% offline |
| Italy | 1.3% | 25 to 34 | Lotteries & sports betting | 55% online, 45% offline |
| Canada | 0.6% | 25 to 34 | Lotteries, poker & sports betting | 65% online, 35% offline |
According to previous studies, approximately 40% of 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK reported gambling in the last month. This is followed by 35% of 25 to 34-year-olds, and then 30% of 35 to 44-year-olds. Those 65+ were the smallest percentage, with only 15% gambling in the last month.
However, the UK Gambling Commission’s 2024 report has caused significant controversy in public opinion for underreporting the number of problem gamblers, raising mistrust that the accurate figures may be higher than disclosed and that more are suffering than we realise.
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) weighed in, stating that the data may not fully reflect the rise in online gambling among younger people. They even suggested:
“the report should not be used to make a direct comparison with results from prior surveys, as a measure of addiction, or to gross up problem gambling prevalence to the whole population.”
Take this into account if you examine the statistics.
Is Problem Gambling a Rising Problem in the UK?
Recent data suggests that problem gambling creates friction in Great Britain, seeing that the numbers have fluctuated over the last few years. What can’t be denied, though, is that the number of young people affected by addiction, notably from online apps and casinos, becomes increasingly alarming.
These casino stats lead us to the next key topic: why young people are particularly susceptible to addiction, and what are the crucial factors driving this trend?
Key Factors Influencing Gambling in Younger People
More young people are being affected by gambling-related behavioural disorders due to a subset of societal and psychological factors:
Accessible websites
Which means anyone can bet or play as they wish when they wish, provided there’s an internet connection. Some experts argue this makes it too easy and that young people are viewing it as entertainment without risks, just like any other smartphone game app.
Social media influence
Another key factor in this trend, since gambling is normalised and, at times, even glamorised by businesses and influencers. You can even tune into live streams and watch ‘professional’ players bet in real time.
Normalising
Gambling has also been normalised in traditional films and TV media. Much of this is due to marketing, especially in the sports sector. You can’t tune into a sports match without seeing a sportsbook advert or logo, blurring the lines between entertainment and betting.
Experts also criticise in-app purchases as a gateway to real-money betting. Similarly, the bright and colourful design and seemingly ‘free’ promotions found on online casinos tend to catch the eye of younger players, especially those who’ve grown up playing on mobile devices.
It’s the case reported by Justyn Rees Larcomb, who shared his experience with addiction in a TEDx Talk. He noted that it started with a seemingly innocent free bet promotion on an online casino:
Age
On the psychological side, young people are less capable of assessing associated risks than older adults. This can lead to problem behaviours, like chasing losses or spending beyond their means.
Younger players may also not have the confidence to reach out for help, further exacerbating the issue. NHS Mental Health Director Claire Murdoch states in this regard:
“Thousands suffer gambling problems across the country, and it is important those suffering from addiction know that the NHS is here to help and they should not hesitate to come forward for support if needed.”
Familial influence
Another psychological factor. Children who grow up with parents or caregivers who openly gamble may be more likely to face addiction. This mimics the data that shows children whose parents smoke are four times more likely to smoke later in adulthood.
To Sum Up
The statistics in the UK show that problem gambling in younger people is becoming an unignorable issue. From the accessibility of online gambling to the psychological impacts of being younger or family influences, it’s likely that this problem won’t disappear without further regulatory measures and awareness campaigns.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of addiction, we urge you to seek professional help. Understanding the warning signs and knowing where to access help can make a big difference in managing and overcoming the addiction. See Gamblizard’s guide on how to deal with gambling addiction for more information.
References
- “BGC Statement on GSGB Publication.” Betting & Gaming Council, July 25, 2024, bettingandgamingcouncil.com/news/bgc-statement-on-gsgb-publication. Accessed September 5, 2024.
- “Do Children’s Apps Simulate Sports and Casino Betting? – Pause before You Play.” Pause before You Play, April 25, 2022, pausebeforeyouplay.org/2022/04/do-childrens-apps-simulate-sports-and-casino-betting/. Accessed September 6, 2024.
- “First Gambling Survey for Great Britain Annual Report Published.” Gambling Commission, July 25, 2024, www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news/article/first-gambling-survey-for-great-britain-annual-report-published. Accessed September 5, 2024.
- “Gambling Availability and Advertising in Canada: A Call to Action | Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.” Ccsa.ca, 2024, www.ccsa.ca/gambling-availability-and-advertising-canada-call-action. Accessed September 5, 2024.
- “Help for Problems with Gambling.” Nhs.uk, January 18, 2022, www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/gambling-addiction. Accessed September 5, 2024.
- “Understanding Someone Who Gambles – GambleAware.” Gambleaware.org, 2024, www.gambleaware.org/how-help-someone-who-gambles. Accessed September 6, 2024.
