A quarter of a million problem gamblers is too many

The Methodist Church has said that it is relieved by theresults of the Gambling Commission's prevalence study, publishedtoday. The study shows that the number of problem gamblers is thesame as the previous study in 1999 and the number of peoplegambling is, if anything, slightly lower.

The Methodist Church has also welcomed the finding that attitudesto gambling are more negative than positive.

Anthea Cox, Coordinating Secretary for Public Life and SocialJustice said; "While we are relieved that the number of problemgamblers has not risen, there are still far too many. Thisauthoritative study gives a clear picture of the situation beforethe implementation of the Gambling Act on 1 September thisyear.

"The Government have always said that the Act provides greatersafeguards for people who are vulnerable to problem gambling; it isnow for them and the Gambling Commission to implement the Act so asto ensure that these predictions come true. We want the next studyin three years time to show a fall in the number of problemgamblers. We remain concerned about the increase in online gamblingand betting; the study clearly shows that these are high risk forproblem gambling".

The Methodist Church is calling for increased funds for help andtreatment for problem gamblers and for a major programme to raiseawareness of the risks of gambling. With the Salvation Army it hasproduced "Against the Odds", which gives the facts about gambling,discusses a Christian response, lists sources of help and suggestswhat people can do if they are concerned about gambling.