The embarrassment linked to gambling issues is deterring individuals in Scotland from seeking assistance.
An investigation conducted by GambleAware revealed that shame poses a significant obstacle, both for individuals and society, preventing people in Scotland from reaching out for help with gambling problems.
The research, carried out by Kantar Public, examined the Gambling Support Service (GSS), which operates across Scotland under the auspices of GambleAware and Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS).
The initiative equips individuals who interact directly with the public to identify those at risk of or experiencing gambling difficulties. Training has been provided to Citizens Advice Bureau locations throughout Scotland, as well as to professionals working in local government, law enforcement, healthcare, debt counseling, housing, and mental health charities.
The study analyzed the initial two years of the project, and one of the key findings was a lack of awareness regarding the severity of gambling problems, coupled with a negative perception surrounding those affected, which discourages them from seeking support.
To tackle these matters, the assessment put forward a number of suggestions, including giving staff more explicit directions, clarifying why gambling can be detrimental to customers, and incorporating inquiries designed to spot potential harm into discussions.
Kantar Public Affairs also proposed exploring adaptability in using inquiries designed to identify harm to encourage more natural and open dialogues with customers about gambling harm, and to lessen the stigma associated with it.
Moreover, it was recommended to develop more thorough training to address perceived difficulties surrounding having uncomfortable conversations about gambling-related harm.
The evaluation added that trainees felt the GSS played a “significant” part in enhancing customer advice on gambling harm and aiding in reducing gambling harm across Scotland, with staff able to provide guidance and direct individuals to pertinent support organizations.
“We are aware that discussions about gambling can be difficult and that the training and resources provided are crucial in equipping frontline staff to have conversations with customers about gambling,” stated Anna Hargrave, Chief Commissioning Officer at GambleAware.
“The development of more explicit guidance and greater flexibility surrounding the inquiries should assist frontline staff in identifying harm, having sensitive customer conversations, and helping to reduce stigma in the future.”
Derek Mitchell, the chief executive of Citizens Advice Scotland, stated: “The Citizens Advice Scotland network is proud to offer this essential service, which has already had a notable effect by educating over two thousand professionals to recognize gambling-related issues.
“It’s evident from the feedback we receive that embarrassment is a significant obstacle, which is why the CAB network insists on not judging anyone’s circumstances or history when they seek assistance. We believe that seeking help early is critical.
“The sooner someone receives the support they require, the faster they can tackle the problem; it’s as simple as that. The alternative is to ignore the issue and let it worsen until it becomes uncontrollable. Individuals should not feel ashamed or concerned about seeking assistance; it’s the essential first step to resolving their problems.”
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