According to a YouGov analysis published on December 9, one in five black, Asian and minority ethnic adults—BAME—reported some level of problem gaming harm, compared to 12 percent of white adults. The analysis confirms GambleAware research on the ethnic make-up of problem gambling done in 2019, which instigated the additional research into BAME communities.
The analysis also looked at those in the higher end of the problem gaming spectrum, which found 7 percent of BAME adults classified as high risk problem gamblers compared to 2 percent for whites. As a corollary, YouGov’s studies showed an increased demand for treatment in minority ethnic communities. 75 percent of problem gamblers from BAME backgrounds required treatment, support, or other advice, as opposed to 49 percent of white problem gamblers.
Participants sought help in 25 percent of the situations because it was available by phone while 18 percent cited confidentiality and free treatment, according to SBC News.
“The survey highlighted that increased awareness of support would motivate at-risk gamblers to seek assistance,” said Briony Gunstone, research director at YouGov. “It is vital, therefore, to highlight the range of different services available, including telephone help lines such as the National Gambling Helpline, to make accessing treatment, advice, and support easier for gamblers from a minority ethnic background.”
However, GambleAware pointed out that the findings go against data in the 2019/20 National Gambling Treatment Service which did not have the same spread or ranges. Analyzed as a unit, the bottom line seems to be that BAME problem gamblers will access treatment and support through services outside of the National Gambling Treatment Service.
For 2021, GambleAware will highlight knowledge of problem gambling experiences by BAME adults. The charity said continued research is needed to bridge barriers to treatment and allocate limited resources.
“The prevalence of high levels of gambling harms among minority ethnic communities, coupled with the significant demand for access to treatment, support, and advice, demonstrates the clear need to further strengthen and improve the existing provisions on offer,” said GambleAware Chief Executive Marc Etches. “Services must be flexible, meet the varying needs of individuals and it is vital they are easy to access for all minority groups.”
