GambleAware Addresses World Cup Concerns

GambleAware has launched a new version of its long-running ‘Bet Regret’ campaign in the running up to the FIFA World Cup to target problem gamblers.

The charity is always surveying the general public to identify and propose solutions and currently predicts that due to the current economic conditions and the significant hype around the World Cup, the tournament will create the ‘perfect storm for problem gambling and any associated harm.

The organisation has also mentioned the recent findings of an Opinium survey, which was conducted on behalf of GambleAware. The survey found that some football fans have concerns about betting advertising and their own gambling habits during the World Cup.

Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, said: “This should be an enjoyable time for all football fans, but with the sheer volume of football and the amount of betting ads, it can be easy to get carried away with betting – and we can see that many fans are already feeling anxious about this.

“As the cost of living crisis bites and people feel the pinch in the run-up to Christmas, this could create a ‘perfect storm’ where fans resort to gambling as a way to cope. This can have the opposite effect, both financially and in terms of mental health.”

The study also found that at least 61% of football fans believe that there are too many gambling adverts during international tournaments. Another 28% of respondents have also claimed that they feel anxious about the potential of loss during the World Cup.

A further 39% of respondents have stated that the financial pressure may pressure them into gambling over the next two months.

In the latest edition of the ‘Bet Regret’ campaign, the video sees a man with an England national team tattoo on his arm with a very poor drawing of a lion, which for some observers, looks like a dog.

The ad compares making risky betting decisions and the feeling of regret that affects most gamblers who may get ‘carried away’ during the World Cup. The charity encourages all gamblers: “Anyone could get carried away in this tournament. Whatever regrets you might have, don’t let gambling be one of them.”

Osmund continued: “There are many ways to avoid ‘Bet Regret’ – the sinking feeling you get after making a bet you wish you hadn’t – from deleting apps to set a limit. These steps can help fans enjoy football this winter without feeling stress or anxiety around gambling.”

Paul Scully MP, newly appointed DCMS Gambling Minister, said: “I welcome this campaign from GambleAware to help raise awareness of practical actions people can take to avoid gambling-related harms.

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