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 s..