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GambleAware’s response to criticism and misinformation
Leading UK charity GambleAware, which works to prevent gambling addiction, has responded to criticism by defending its effectiveness and independence.
The charity organization responded to concerns expressed in an iNews article about GambleAware possibly promoting the interests of the gambling industry. Allegations of conflict of interest were made against GambleAware by The Good Law Project, claiming the latter being funded by the industry hampers its effectiveness and impartiality.
In particular, issues with the ways in which GambleAware handled treatment services, educational materials, and advertising strategies were noted by The Good Law Project which claimed that the charity normalized gambling and gave incorrect guidance.
In response, Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, called these allegations “inaccurate and misleading”. The Charity stated:
“GambleAware’s foremost priority is to prevent harm and provide accessible support to those affected. These services are vital, remarkably effective, and readily accessible.”
According to Osmond, GambleAware operates independently and has robust governance structures in place, which are not influenced in any way by the gambling industry. She also noted that for prevention, treatment, and research into gambling harm.
She added that GambleAware is in favor of a statutory tax on the gambling sector to pay for gambling harm prevention, treatment, and research. The charity responded that 90% of the patients who undergo the treatment programs that it initiates demonstrate an improvement in their condition after they have completed the prescribed course of treatment.
They responded to criticism of their advertising and education initiatives as well, defending their strategies and pushing for stricter limits on advertising.
Ben Howard‘s firsthand account of GambleAware’s life-saving effects brought the response to a close:
“The NGSN not only provided me with life-changing guidance but saved me from suicide in 2020. From this, I know first-hand just how essential and effective these services are and they continue to help thousands of people every year. Any claims that the services are unhelpful or inadequate are not only wrong but also highly damaging and stigmatizing for those needing support.”
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