Home > SHAPE Passport > Staying Safe > Gambling Awareness

Gambling Awareness

Gambling problems can affect anyone, regardless of background. What starts as fun can turn into a harmful obsession with serious effects. Whether you gamble on sports, scratch cards, roulette, poker, or slots—whether in a casino, at the track, or online—a gambling problem can damage relationships, impact work, and cause financial troubles. Some people may even find themselves doing things they never imagined, like accumulating large debts or stealing money to continue gambling.

Here are some of the most common types of gambling in the UK... 

Safe gambling

For most, gambling is a harmless social activity, but for some it can become addictive and cause serious financial and relationship problems. If you gamble, make sure to do so safely. 

If you have concerns about yourself or someone else, you might want to:

• Raise your concerns and talk to someone you trust to help you, 

• Contact your GP, 

• Speak to your tutor,  

• Join a support group, 

• Block gambling site access, 

• Ask businesses to exclude you from gambling, 

• Use resources on help websites

Below are two websites offering information and support for anyone struggling with gambling or affected by someone else’s gambling.