Introduction
Most spend small amounts which are similar to, or less than, spending on other leisure activities and do not report experiencing any harm from gambling. However around 300,000 people in Great Britain are estimated to be experiencing ‘problem gambling’, defined as gambling to a degree which compromises, disrupts or damages personal and family relationships or recreational pursuits, with the Government reporting in April 2023 that a further 1.8 million are identified as having a relationship with gambling at elevated levels of risk.
So whilst the vast majority of people can gamble, stay in control, and have fun with it; unfortunately, there are some who can’t, and this can lead to devastating consequences.
The aim of this short e-learning module is to increase your knowledge and awareness around the dangers of gambling harm, and why increased exposure and normalisation of gambling within cricket makes you more susceptible to the downside of gambling.
In this module you will learn:
- Why athletes involved in elite sport are often at higher risk than the general public
- What is meant by problematic gambling and sports integrity
- The negative impact that gambling could have on your mental health
- Gain an understanding into the wider impact that problem gambling can have
- The importance of looking after yourself and colleagues
3% of athletes bet more
than they can afford to lose
Throughout this module, we will hear from professional cricketer Chris Wood, who many of you will know, and EPIC facilitator Marc Williams, a former professional footballer.
Both Chris and Marc have lived experience of gambling harm and want to use this to educate others involved in sport about the dangers of problem gambling.