22-05-2025
Motherwell and Wishaw MSP to lead Holyrood debate on problem gambling and public health
Problem gambling can cause massive impacts on finances, health, and wellbeing. People experiencing problem gambling face stigmatisation and this can put-off people from seeking support when it's needed.
Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson will lead a Holyrood debate on problem gambling and public health.
Problem gambling can cause massive impacts on finances, health, and wellbeing. People experiencing problem gambling face stigmatisation and this can put-off people from seeking support when it's needed.
In 2021, more than half of adults reported taking part in any gambling activity in the previous year (58 per cent) and around 55,000 people are estimated to be experiencing severe gambling problems, with a further 3.8 per cent at risk of developing gambling-related issues, according to the Scottish Health Survey 2020.
Ms Adamson will also host a session in the Scottish Parliament encouraging MSPs to speak with support organisations and people with lived experience of problem gambling on May 22.
The SNP MSP said: 'Gambling takes many forms and includes scratch cards, lottery, bingo, games on mobile devices as well as the more traditional sports betting and casino games.
'Problem gambling causes serious individual harm but it also has wider impacts on families and communities. Loss of employment, debt, deterioration of physical and mental health and this can lead to increased risk of suicide among individuals affected by problem gambling.
'It's estimated that six people are directly affected by the person experiencing gambling harms. Women are more likely to be an affected other.
'And we know that financial desperation is linked with crime. GamCare's Annual Statistics report shows more than 50 per cent of individuals seeking help for problem gambling also reported committing criminal acts to fund gambling activities.
'I am keen to lead this debate to frame problem gambling as a public health issue which requires a public health, person-centred response.
'We need to look again at regulation and our public health approach given the unprecedented variety of websites, social media platforms, marketing campaigns, and apps with algorithms designed to keep you hooked despite the public health problems.
'It is easy to access addictive gambling apps. It needs to be easy to access support services for people who require it – free from judgement.'
Thursday's event, which follows the debate, will bring together organisations which support people experiencing problem gambling.
Led by GamCare, who run the National Gambling Helpline, attending are: The Simon Community; RCA Trust; Fast Forward; Cyrenians; John Hartson Foundation; and people with lived experience of problem gambling.
You can reach out day or night for free information, support and advice on problem gambling by calling the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or by visiting
*Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
