GamCare has revealed that the number of people reaching out to the National Gambling Helpline for issues regarding online gambling has hit a five-year high.
Four out of five people who reached out, or 82% of individuals, explained that they were struggling specifically with online gambling.
This is the highest rate the industry has seen since the pandemic when lockdown restrictions were still in place and many people could not visit land-based properties across the UK.
GamCare, the company that operates the National Gambling Helpline, has urged caution as the World Cup prepares to kick off this week.
During the last men’s World Cup in 2022, there was an 11% increase in calls and online messages from people reaching out for help.
The latest Care Quality Commission assessment found that individuals described GamCare's services as "invaluable."
Victoria Corbishley, GamCare CEO, said: “We typically see more requests for help and support during major sporting tournaments, and the World Cup could be particularly problematic for those struggling with online gambling.
“Many people who come to our services began by betting on sports before developing patterns of gambling that became harmful, and the data shows young adults could be particularly vulnerable this summer.
“We know how quickly this can impact mental health, finances and relationships, and we want people to know we are here to help.”
A recent survey from YouGov, commissioned by GamCare, found that young adults could be especially vulnerable during this summer’s tournament.
The survey found that, out of 3,700 adults, one in three 18–34 year olds who have placed a bet on the Euros or World Cup in the past explained that they find it difficult to avoid gambling during major international tournaments.
Similarly, of those between 18–34 who had bet on sports tournaments before, 30% said they continued to gamble afterwards on higher-risk forms of gambling, such as online casino games.
Other countries around the world are equally concerned about gambling harm increasing during the World Cup.
Malaysia recently announced that it would increase supervision to detect and block gambling-related websites during the event.
Similarly, Hong Kong police have issued a warning for players as illegal prediction markets continue to grow in popularity.
The rates of people struggling with in-person gambling are 36%, the lowest since 2021
