Last week I joined MPs and bereaved families at the Gambling with Lives annual reception in Westminster. Unlike many gambling charities, Gambling with Lives supports families and friends who have been bereaved by a suicide directly caused or influenced by gambling.
It was founded by families for families, like the parents of Kimberly Wadsworth, who I spoke with. Kimberly took her life aged 32. Her mother, Kay, told me Kimberley began gambling on fixed odd betting terminals and in casinos, before moving on to play online games where she was given VIP status.
To the outside world, Kimberly was an outgoing, successful career woman. Until she took her life, her family had no idea about the seriousness of her addiction or where it might lead.
It’s estimated there are up to 496 gambling-related suicides every year – over one a day. I was staggered to learn that 86% of online betting profit comes from just 5% of a gambling company’s customers, like Kimberly.
For many individuals, gambling starts off as a harmless pastime or a way to unwind and have fun. However, for some, it can quickly spiral out of control and lead to a cycle of addiction and financial ruin. The constant need to chase losses and the thrill of risking more money can create a dangerous pattern that can be difficult to break.
Thankfully many people don’t see the dark side of gambling that Kimberly experienced. Sadly, some unscrupulous gambling companies adopt marketing tactics like those who groom and exploit victims, offering their clients free bets, gifts, trips and products like iPads, before relentlessly pursuing them and encouraging them to bet much more than they can afford.
It was heartbreaking to meet bereaved parents and partners of those no longer with us. If families become aware of the role gambling played in a death, it can raise many questions. Gambling with Lives can help gather information and offer support.
They can help with:
Analysis of banking and gambling data and provide support through this process;
Support families through inquests and help accessing legal representation;
Support to raise concerns with the gambling regulator or other government and public bodies.
As your Police and Crime Commissioner, and the national lead for addictions and substance misuse, I have been determined to shine a light onto the shady world of gambling harm, especially the crime committed to fund gambling addiction.
I am committed to working with charities like Gambling with Lives to push for every gambling-related suicide to be investigated so we can learn lessons, act on them, and put an end to all VIP schemes and inducements to gamble such as ‘free bet’ bonuses.
Life is precious and I don’t want those living with a gambling disorder to suffer in silence. I would like to urge anyone struggling with a gambling disorder to seek help and support. There’s a variety of treatment options and providers who can help you overcome your gambling habit and help you regain control of your life (see links above).
Crisis and emergency support
If you are in distress, you can call the Samaritans 24hrs, 7 days a week on 116 123.
If you are concerned about your mental health or feeling suicidal, please contact your GP or 111 for support.
If you are immanently concerned about your safety and in crisis, call 999 or attend A&E.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
