The risks and dangers of irresponsible gambling are bigger than ever, with it now easier to place bets than ever before. Many people and age groups are exposed to the hazards of gambling, with young men aged between 16-34 the one most at risk. GambleAware, the charity tasked with reducing gambling harms in the UK has decided to support this group by launching their new safer gambling campaign, 'BetRegret'.
BetRegret has been designed to raise awareness of impulsive betting in order to encourage moderation and reduce gambling-related harm, which is becoming increasingly common amongst young men. The campaign highlights the sinking feeling of placing a bet they immediately regret or betting when drunk or bored to chase losses - so this will have a huge impact on society and provide support to those who're need of it.
There's an estimated 2.4m young men aged between 16-34 who gamble on sport, with the bulk of it coming online. A survey conducted on the behalf of GambleAware gave an insight into why this group are so at risk, with 63% of the respondents saying that there are too many opportunities to bet today. Whilst 67% also said that it is very easy to get drawn into making impulsive bets.
It's believed that 2m adults suffer some level of harm related to gambling, including 340,000 which are considered to be problem gamblers so the addition of BetRegret will undoubtedly have a hugely positive impact on the industry.
The campaign will be on display for all to take note of during Sunday's huge Premier League clash between Manchester United and Liverpool live on SkySports, where a first advert featuring Dean Saunders, Danny Gabbidon and Matt Smith will air. This will be the first of three adverts aimed to raise awareness surrounding the environment and situations that can lead to people making the type of impulsive bets they regret in a relatable way which will hopefully make gamblers think twice before they place such bets.
BetRegret is one of a number of outcomes from the governments gambling review to ensure that everyone within the industry is doing all that they can to protect all consumers and community. It will run alongside ongoing campaigns to help problem gamblers throughout the UK, along with their friends and family.
For more information and ways to get in touch visit BeGambleAware.org or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. There's also more information on our Responsible Gambling page.
See BetRegret's first ad which will be aired during Sunday's Manchester United v Liverpool clash below: