Gambling can become a serious problem, with impact on personal, family, and community life. From betting on football to purchasing lottery tickets, betting shops, licensed arcades, casinos, and bingo premises, it can feel like gambling has a presence everywhere.

As our digital world continues to grow, gambling has reached new heights, such as in-app purchases required to allow games to progress. The industry generated £14.4 billion in 2018/19.

If you or a loved one needs help, there are options:

• Visit the GambleAware website to access free, confidential support via:
  • Live chat
  • Freephone 24-7 National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133)
  • Resources such as gambling blocking software or software limiting gambling ads online
• Visit Citizens Advice Scotland's page.
• Find peer support on the Gambler's Anonymous Scotland website.

Our Housing Team has completed training with Citizens Advice Scotland's GambleAware initiative to help support and advise those affected.

It can be easy to fall into gambling for relaxation, hope of winning, boredom, or a number of other reasons. However, the consequences can range from financial to legal, interpersonal, and beyond.

Don't take a chance - please reach out if you need help.