Gambling Harms and the Criminal Justice System

There are around 500,000 problem gamblers in the UK For every person who has a problem with gambling, up to 10 other people can be affected. Gambling-related harm can include debt, relationship difficulties, housing issues, gender-based violence, depression and anxiety, feelings of isolation, and suicidality.

There has been a growing understanding that gambling addiction is a behavioral disorder. Furthermore there is a clear relationship between disordered gambling and crime, with high prevalence rates of gambling harm amongst people across the criminal justice system. However, there is low awareness around the issue and what support is available to people both in the community and in custody.

During this FREE 2-hour training session, we will take a 'whole systems approach' to exploring gambling- harms, risk factors, impacts, and how to identify and support those at all stages of the criminal justice system. You will learn about our treatment network and how to refer clients to treatment services. This training is essential for any professionals or volunteers who work within the criminal justice sector. Please note: you will receive an email with a link to access the training at least 24 hours prior to the date of the event. If you haven’t received the link, please check your junk/spam folders or contact eartha.heptinstall@gamcare.org.uk.

Content warning: We want everyone who joins our training to feel safe and empowered to take care of their own wellbeing. We therefore feel it is important to state that this session covers gambling-related harm in some depth, and will include references to emotive subjects including addiction, abuse, self-harm and suicide.