Tonight’s National League game between Chesterfield and Altrincham is dedicated to raising awareness of gambling-related harms and the support available to fans.
The club has invited a selection of organisations committed to preventing gambling harms and helping those who may be struggling to attend the game to help promote their services. The initiative aims to engage fans and highlight the links between poor mental health and gambling addiction. One study in a UK context demonstrated that those experiencing gambling-related harms were six times more likely to die by suicide.
The organisations that will be attendance at the Technique Stadium include the Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM), GamCare, Mentell, British Red Cross and Derbyshire County Council Public Health. Representatives from these organisations will be talking to fans inside and outside the stadium before kick-off and handing out leaflets with lots of important information to help keep fans safe.
Greg Stenson, Public Health Service Development Officer at Derbyshire County Council, said “I’d like to extend a huge thank you to the Spireites Trust for working with us on the gambling awareness initiative.
“Gambling is often termed as the ‘hidden’ addiction, therefore it makes identifying and having a conversation with a close friend or relative extremely difficult. Engaging with supporters of all ages and backgrounds before the game, and promoting support services, is integral to our public health approach in minimising gambling-related harm.”
Daniel Bliss, Director of External Affairs at YGAM, said “This is a really important matchday initiative from the club and we were delighted to be part of it. It is crucial we all work together to raise awareness of the clear links between gambling harms and poor mental health.
“There will be many people struggling in silence so highlighting the support that is available is vital. If today’s match inspires someone to reach out to talk about their mental health and access the support they need, it will be a good result.”
Research from Gambling Commission recently showed that 42% of the UK population gamble. The data also revealed that there are 170,000 problem gamblers in the UK. A study from 2020 showed that fewer than 3% of gambling addicts are receiving treatment.
The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) is an award-winning charity which provides free expert training on gambling harms to teachers, youth workers, parents, universities, health professionals and community leaders. The professional then use these resources to deliver awareness sessions directly to young people. www.ygam.org
GamCare is the leading UK provider of free information, advice and support for anyone harmed by gambling. They run the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. www.gamcare.org.uk
Mentell provides circles for men aged 18+ to talk in a safe and confidential space, free from advice and judgement. www.mentell.org.uk
The TalkBanStop campaign is a partnership that combines practical tools with support to help you to stop gambling and kick-start your recovery journey.
TALK – Speak with a trained Adviser for information, advice, and support. www.gamcare.org.uk
BAN – Block your devices from accessing gambling websites and apps for free. www.gamban.com
STOP – Register to self-exclude from all UK gambling apps and websites for free. www.gamstop.co.uk
