Gambling should be recognised as a “major public health risk” in Northern Ireland, a new report has recommended.
The new report follows an inquiry carried out by the Northern Ireland All Party Group on Reducing Harm Related to Gambling between December 2022 and January 2024. The report concludes that by recognising gambling as a public health issue and implementing the recommendations, Northern Ireland can set a precedent for effectively ensuring that the long-term wellbeing of individuals and communities is safeguarded.
“At the age of 16 when I placed my first £1 on a roulette machine winning £7.20, I had no idea what was about to unfold,” he said. He said the process of stopping was extremely difficult and paid tribute to his family who supported him. He now works with Gambling with Lives to support others.