Concern over gambling ads ‘bombardment’ as addiction referrals hit record highs

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Health officials have raised concerns over children and adults being “bombarded” with gambling adverts after a record number of people have sought help for gambling addiction in England. NHS England boss Amanda Pritchard also sounded the alarm over “touch of a button” bets as she announced that the NHS is ramping up support for people with gambling problems. “As it has done since 1948, the NHS is responding at speed and rolling out seven new gambling harms clinics across England, so that even more people can be supported by the NHS in their time of need.” One patient who received help from the Northern Gambling Harms Service, said: “Gambling addiction took over my life to the extent I was suicidal and relationships with my family and friends had broken down. “Engaging with NHS services has helped me get control of my life back and I’m rebuilding trust with my family and friends, once again having happy and healthy relationships with people close to me.” Commenting on the new clinics, Public Health Minister Neil O’ Brien said: “The stark rise in the number of people seeking NHS treatment for gambling-related harms shows the devastating impact it can have on people’s lives and health.