“People might not identify as gamblers at all, but the financial impact can creep in without warning”
Whilst gambling might feel like just a bit of fun, Sinead Campbell, Head of Money, Debt and Quality at Advice NI, is sounding a serious warning about the risks, particularly here in Northern Ireland.
New data from the 2024 Gambling Prevalence Survey, published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA), reveals that people in Northern Ireland are more likely to experience gambling-related harm than elsewhere in the UK, with problem gambling rates now higher than in Great Britain.
Sinead and her team work on the front line of debt advice. In the last financial year, they supported 3,481 people dealing with more than £39 million of debt, and gambling is an increasingly common factor in the financial difficulties clients are facing. Although overall gambling participation has fallen over the past decade, the data shows that the risks associated have not.
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According to NISRA, around 3% of adults in Northern Ireland are now classified as problem gamblers – up from 2.3% in the last survey. A further 10% of adults fall into moderate or low-risk categories. These numbers may seem small, but they represent thousands of people who are at real risk of financial and emotional distress.
Part of the problem, Sinead explains, is how normalised gambling has become, particularly through social media.
“We’re seeing a shift away from traditional betting shops or gambling apps. Now, people can gamble through the same platforms they use to chat with friends or scroll through family photos. It blurs the line between entertainment and betting, and many people don’t even realise they’re gambling.”
Low-stake draws and giveaways on social platforms may seem harmless, but frequent participation can add up quickly, especially when large cash prizes, holidays and cars feel within reach. “These low-stake bets often don’t feel like gambling,” Sinead says.
“People might not identify as gamblers at all, but the financial impact can creep in without warning. We’ve worked with clients who suddenly find themselves unable to cover essential bills because of the cumulative cost.”
The emotional toll can be just as serious. “There’s a huge amount of shame and secrecy tied to problem gambling-related debt. Most people only seek help when things have completely spiralled. Our message is clear – you’re not alone, and you don’t have to wait until crisis point to reach out.”
Gambling can also create tension in relationships, especially when financial dishonesty is involved. “We see everything from partners hiding debts to overspending on gambling and not leaving enough to live on, which is a form of financial coercion, where one partner controls another’s access to money. These are incredibly sensitive issues, but there is support available.”
Public attitudes towards gambling may be changing, with more than half of adults in Northern Ireland viewing it negatively but harmful habits still fly under the radar, particularly among younger people. Despite the scale of the issue, only around 1% of those experiencing gambling harm – either directly or through someone else – currently seek support.
“You wouldn’t ignore a health concern, and you shouldn’t ignore financial strain either,” Sinead says. “Gambling harm is more common than people think, but our debt advisors can provide the right advice and support to help people take back control of their finances and their lives.”
Advice NI offers free, impartial and confidential support for anyone affected by debt, including gambling-related harm. Visit adviceni.net or call 0800 915 4604 to speak to an adviser, Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.00pm.
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