Summary:
- PayPlan is supporting GambleAware’s gambling harms stigma reduction campaign
- It marks the latest partnership it has entered into with problem gambling treatment organizations
- The campaign was launched after a new study found stigma is still a major barrier to seeking help
A new UK campaign led by GambleAware aimed at reducing gambling harms stigma continues to gain support from various organizations, with free debt solutions provider PayPlan becoming the latest to announce its backing for the campaign.
Important to Reduce Stigma Around Gambling-Related Debt
Recognizing the vital role that financial services play in reducing gambling harms stigma, GambleAware CEO Zoe Osmond said they’re delighted that PayPlan has come on board to help raise awareness about the importance of ending the stigma surrounding gambling harms and encouraging affected individuals to open up and seek support.
Many people experience serious financial problems due to gambling and it is crucial that when they access financial services, they are reassured that it is safe and okay to openly talk about their situation and reach out for help, Osmond said.
Emma Gibbons, Vulnerability Lead at PayPlan, acknowledges the need to increase conversations around gambling harm and change people’s negative perception of those dealing with gambling-related debt.
PayPlan’s participation in the gambling harm stigma reduction campaign is a further testament to its commitment to helping people get their finances back on track. Over the years, it has partnered with gambling harm prevention and treatment organizations in the UK to offer support for people incurring huge debts due to gambling.
Since 2021, problem gambling treatment charity GamCare has been making referrals to PayPlan, with both parties also conducting staff training and developing referral pathways.
Stigma Preventing People from Getting Help
GambleAware, the UK’s leading gambling treatment charity, launched the campaign after new research has found that stigma remains a major barrier to seeking support. New data published by the charity shows that 2 in 3 adults (64%) who have experienced gambling problems in the UK have never opened up about it. Of that number, 2 in 5 (39%) have chosen to suffer in silence due to stigma.
The latest findings support a study published by the charity earlier this year wherein 62% agree that people negatively judge those experiencing gambling harms.
GambleAware is partnering with multiple entities and organizations in running the campaign, with PayPlan becoming its newest partner. Several prominent figures in the UK are also lending their support, including Dr. Linda Papadopoulos, Dr. Ellie Cannon, Professor Dame Clare Gerada, sports broadcaster Clive Tyldesley and presenter Scott Thomas who has lived experience of gambling harms.
