The charity has warned that such stigma is holding people back from seeking vital support.
For example, the study shows that 28% of those who experience problems with gambling hide their activities from their family and friends, and 24% who are experiencing the most serious harm do not seek support due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
Zoë Osmond OBE, CEO of GambleAware, commented: “Now is the time to have a national conversation about gambling harm. Only by encouraging an open dialogue can we empower people to seek the support they need without judgement.”
The organisation has installed a new installation at Westfield London in White City, featuring 85,000 poker chips to encourage conversation surrounding the problem, as it highlights how anyone could be at risk of harm, including children.
In detail, the installation illustrates..