The new year period can be a challenging time for those experiencing gambling harms, financial pressures and other issues such as poor mental wellbeing.
Local figures suggest that over 13,000 adults in Walsall are estimated to experience direct harm from gambling. When loved ones, children and friends are included, the number of people affected could be up to six times higher.
According to the Gambling Commission (2023), 77% of people experiencing harms say incentives (such as free offers or bonuses) encourage them to gamble more than they want. The Gambling Commission (2024) also reports 69% of young people have seen or heard gambling adverts. Advertising and marketing can also impact choices, even without people realising it.
Walsall residents can access the Council’s gambling harms directory (also available for professionals), which includes the following three steps for positive short and long-term change:
“ Gambling harms often go unseen, affecting not just individuals but families and friends too. If gambling is causing worry about money, relationships or work, you’re not alone. It is not your fault. There is help available and recovery is possible. There are free, anonymous support tools which are here to help you, as well as a range of services if you need other support. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
The following quote is based on common experiences shared by those affected by gambling harms:
“I’ve lost my friends as I keep cancelling on them, I haven’t got any money to do things. I’m not present with my family. My employer is worried about me, they have scheduled a meeting with me next week, I haven’t told anyone yet. My mental health has never been worse. I can’t sleep. I’m always on my phone. but I keep going back.”
To access the support guides, visit the links below:
To make a referral to a specialist gambling treatment service, visit the West Midlands NHS Gambling Support Clinic website.
If you need urgent help for your mental health, call NHS 111 and select option 2 to speak to a trained professional. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123.
