GambleAware study reveals strong public support for stricter gambling advertising regulations

A recent study by GambleAware has revealed significant public support for stricter regulations on gambling advertising in the UK. The study, conducted in partnership with Ipsos, included responses from over 4,000 adults and highlighted growing concerns about the prevalence and impact of gambling advertising. The findings indicate that the majority of the public believe there are too many gambling ads and that these ads have a negative impact, particularly on children and vulnerable people.

Public demand for more stringent regulations

The survey results show that almost three-quarters of British consumers support increased regulation of gambling advertising on social media and television. Specifically, 74% of respondents believe that social media advertising should be more tightly regulated, while 72% support tighter controls on television advertising. This widespread concern reflects growing public awareness of the potential harms associated with gambling advertising.

In addition to concerns about the amount of advertising, 67% of respondents agreed that there are currently too many gambling advertisements. This view was shared by 66% of respondents who expressed concerns about the impact of these advertisements on children. The public’s call for stricter regulation stems from a desire to protect vulnerable groups from the risks associated with gambling.

Influence on gambling behavior

The study also sheds light on the direct impact of gambling advertising on individual behavior. According to the results, 24% of respondents who gambled in the past year reported taking gambling-related actions after seeing an advert. This figure increases dramatically among those experiencing gambling problems, with 79% of this group stating that advertising makes it difficult to curtail their gambling activity.

In addition, 51% of respondents indicated that gambling advertising makes it difficult to watch professional football without feeling the urge to place a bet. This highlights the pervasive influence of advertising on gambling behaviour and underlines the need for more stringent regulation to mitigate these effects. The survey results suggest that current advertising practices may be contributing to gambling addiction and related harm.

Proposed measures for safer advertising

In response to the survey results, GambleAware has proposed several measures to make gambling advertising safer. One key recommendation is to introduce a ban on advertising broadcast on TV, radio and video on demand before the watershed. This would expand the current voluntary whistle-to-whistle ban, which covers only a small percentage of all gambling advertising broadcast on TV.

GambleAware also advocates for all gambling ads to carry independent, evidence-based health warnings with clear guidance on support services. This approach aims to help those in need by directing them to appropriate resources. The organization also suggests banning gambling marketing at sporting events, including removing sponsors from sportswear, merchandise and stadiums.