‘Terminals and gambling online most problematic’
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.
It comes as figures show British gamblers lost a total of £1.7 billion on the machines in 2015 and 11.5% of all users are serious gambling addicts.
The concerns have led to the government launching a consultation that aims to reduce the risk of people suffering large losses.
People can bet up to £100 every 20 seconds on electronic casino games, but ministers are considering a new limit somewhere between £2 and 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 UK government’s consultation on gambling states: “We are aware that the factors which influence the extent of harm to the player are wider than one product, or a limited set of parameters such as stakes and prizes,.
“We are therefore also consulting on corresponding social responsibility measures across gaming machines that enable high rates of loss, on player protections in the online sector, on a package of measures on gambling advertising and on current arrangements for the delivery of research, education and treatment (RET).
“We want to see industry, regulator and charities continue to drive the social responsibility agenda.”