Based on a new data retrieving methodology, the UKGC has revealed that the UK problem gambling rate may be eight times higher than once thought. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

A large difference

A new study published by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has revealed Great Britain’s problem gambling rate could be eight times worse than previously thought.  

approximately 1.3 million adults at risk

The watchdog had in February 2022 estimated the segment of people with a gambling problem to be as low as 0.3% of GB adults. It has now revised that figure to 2.5%, which translates to approximately 1.3 million adults at risk. According to The Guardian, the UKGC released the “higher quality figures” on Thursday based on a methodology updated since it reported the initial 0.3% figure.

Another standout finding from the UKGC’s latest research, which canvassed 4,000 people over two months, was that bettors were more inclined to gamble for financial gain than for entertainment.

Knives out 

The UKGC said it will in the future run a more extensive survey “conducted over a longer period of time.” 

Some prominent figures have reacted to the 2.5% figure. UK Gambling Act Minister Stuart Andrew gave one of the milder reactions, stating simply that the new figures reveal “a higher quality picture of gambling participation and harm than has existed previously.” 

I hope the industry will take note”

Chair of a cross-parliamentary group of UK MPs with an anti-gambling remit, Carolyn Harris, was more pointed, saying the hike came as “no surprise.” She warned: “I hope the industry will take note and will be as keen to use these figures as they have been to cite those that showed lower rates of addiction.” 

BGC bites back 

The Betting & Gaming Council (BGC), known for citing the UKGC’s 2022 survey as a reason for the British government not to “pander to the anti-gambling lobby,” hit back at Thursday’s figures.  

The group downplayed the figures as experimental and stated they remained “under evaluation.” Citing a previous National Health Service survey that pegged problem gambling rates at 0.4%, a BGC spokesperson said the new survey’s methodology meant “a different rate is to be expected.”