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4mo ago

NHS Warns of Holiday Gambling Surge as Addiction Referrals Double

Rising gambling-related harms prompt NHS England to expand clinics and urge caution during Boxing Day sports events.

The King George VI Chase is among the big Boxing Day sporting fixtures which big bookmakers will be hoping attract plenty of punters. Last year Gavin Sheehan won it on Hewick at 12-1
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Overview

  • The NHS reports a 130% increase in gambling addiction referrals, with nearly 2,000 cases between April and September 2024 compared to the same period last year.
  • NHS England has expanded its network of gambling addiction clinics from eight to 15 in the past year to address growing demand.
  • Experts highlight Boxing Day as a high-risk period due to heavy advertising during major sporting events, including Premier League matches and horse racing.
  • Doctors warn that promotional tactics like 'free Christmas bets' can lead to excessive gambling, particularly during the festive season when financial pressures may be heightened.
  • A new statutory levy on gambling profits, expected to raise £100 million annually, will fund research, prevention, and treatment of gambling-related harm.