Members of minorities with a gambling addiction are 50 percent more likely to have experienced discrimination or racism. So says a report commissioned by GambleAware and conducted by Ipsos U.K. and ClearView Research through the University of Manchester, iGaming Business reported December 6.
Almost 3,000 people were surveyed in the study, with 1,177 white British and 1,220 from minority communities, conducted in May 2022 including residents of England, Wales and Scotland.
GambleAware emphasized the connection between gambling addiction and discrimination. Some who were surveyed discussed the connection between being discriminated against and being vulnerable to addiction. This sometimes led to exaggerated gambling behavior, social exclusion, fewer job opportunities and heightened risk of mental health issues.
Some said gambling was a “coping mechanism” while nearly a fifth of those from minority backgrounds were three times more likely to make the link, compared to white British residents who gamble.
Minorities were also less likely than white respondents to talk to friends and family about their gambling. They were also less likely to reach out to support service providers or healthcare providers. They were also less likely to trust such resources, often because of their experience with racism and discrimination.
GambleAware CEO Zoë Osmond urged those with such issues to seek help. “Gambling harms can affect anyone, but they can be more common and more damaging in communities that face social inequality – such as these minority groups,” Osmond said. “Fortunately, help is out there.”
She added, “The National Gambling Support Network offers confidential, tailored support for people from all backgrounds. It also does a lot of community outreach to raise awareness and increase early intervention, so that people from all backgrounds know where to turn and can get help before gambling problems turn into an addiction.”
