Fixed-odds and online betting ‘most addictive’

FIXED-ODDS betting terminals and online sports betting are the most addictive types of gambling, a new study has claimed.

A report by the University of South Wales (USW), published today, revealed that fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) and online sports betting contribute to 80% of the risk of impaired gambling control.

University academics say the survey, which received 248 responses from across Wales, reveals the clear negative impact gambling can have, often leading to family breakdown and poverty.

Bev John, Professor of Addictions and Health Psychology at USW, said the research identified the invaluable support of specialist services, but there remains a lack of services available in Wales.

She said: “The prevalence of the online market for gambling, particularly for betting on sporting events, as well as the addictive nature of fixed-odds betting terminals, are high-risk factors, with our research suggesting that these two types of gambling contribute to 80% of the risk of impaired gambling control.”

Analysis of betting shops in five Welsh authorities (Denbighshire, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Vale of Glamorgan and Wrexham) found that licensed gambling outlets (LGOs) are often located in highdensity clusters.

Clusters of the LGOs in Newport and Wrexham were found to be in the cities’ most socio-economically deprived areas.

One survey respondent said: “It’s insidious. It’s on every sporting event. You can’t escape it. Sporting stars and teams wear sponsorship. You can’t get away from it.”

The report also indicated that individuals who drink heavily gamble more frequently.

Another respondent said: “I know how closely linked drinking and gambling is as [I] have had a close family member suffer. It has a huge effect on the near family and alienates many people.”

Lead AM for the study Jayne Bryant said: “The purpose of this report was to give us a current understanding of problem gambling in Wales. I know from my surgeries and from speaking with other local organisations that problem gambling is a growing issue, but that it remains chronically under-reported.

“This report shows that people often gamble alone, online and use it as a coping strategy for other issues. This toxic mix can often lead a person into addictive behaviour, unknown to their loved ones.”

The report comes after a consultation was launched on proposals to cut the maximum stake on FOBTs from £100 to between £50 and £2.

Bookmakers fear the plan, part of a package of measures announced in the Government’s gambling review, will not work and will have a negative impact on the high street, causing job losses and “ruining the lives of the thousands of employees”.

But others believe it does not go far enough, describing it as “deeply disappointing” and raising concerns that the process is taking too long.

Raising standards of player protection for online gambling, a responsible gambling campaign and new advertising guidelines are among a raft of suggestions designed to help minimise the risk to vulnerable people and children.

Strengthening the code on responsible gambling advertising and responsible gambling initiatives are also being considered.

A 12-week consultation is being launched on the proposals, which are aimed at reducing the potential for large losses on the machines.