Lennon calls for SFA to recognise problem

NICOLA FINDLAY

A Labour MSP has urged the Scottish Football Association (SFA) to recognise gambling addiction as an illness.

Central Scotland MSP and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport Monica Lennon spoke at First Minister’s Questions on Thursday and asked what action the Scottish Government is taking to work with football authorities and clubs to reduce problem gambling.

It comes after Hamilton Academicals head coach Brian Rice admitting breaching Scottish FA gambling rules in is battle with the addiction.

He has been banned from the dugout for 10 matches.

Ms Lennon has also said she supports the proposals for an ‘amnesty’ to create a safe environment for other coaching staff and players who are living with gambling addiction to seek help.

In a letter to Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive of the SFA, Ms Lennon wrote: “Gambling addiction is a major public health issue in our society that the football community is not immune from.

“The stigma associated with problem gambling is a barrier to people and their families getting help.”

She went on: “I would strongly welcome any new measures by the SFA to encourage anyone affected by problem gambling to seek help.

“Proposals for an ‘amnesty’ would send a strong message to players, coaching staff and fans who are living with the fear and shame of problem gambling.”

The Gamblers Anonymous Scotland Helpline is open 24 hours a day on 0370 050 8881.

This is a volunteer service run and maintained by G.A. members and we aim to operate the Helpline 24 hours a day – 7 days a week.

All conversations are held in the strictest of confidence.