“Within South Asian culture, gambling has always been a taboo subject. If you are from a Muslim family it's even more unheard of. Just as with alcohol and drugs, it is prohibited in the Qur’an…The taboo of gambling within South Asian culture has meant my family still can’t get the support they need.”

“My first memory of gambling was popping into the local bookies on Grand National day aged 18 to lay an each-way bet for me and my mum…It was a man’s world, but I still recall the buzz of placing a potential winner and the desire to come back to collect my winnings after the race. It was like the die was cast.”

The UK lags behind the rest of Europe on gambling advertising regulation while other countries are limiting their impact. Kate Samuels examines approaches taken in three different countries and explores what the UK can learn to better protect vulnerable communities and reduce gambling-related harm.

Gambling harms thrive in plain sight, especially in less affluent communities like Govanhill. With bookmakers on every corner and addictive mechanics embedded in video games, the seeds of addiction are planted early, often in the lives of vulnerable young people. Eva O’Donovan unpacks the systemic exploitation and the hidden struggles of those caught in its grip, shedding light on the urgent need for change.

“At 72, I’ve lived a life full of highs, lows, and resilience from overcoming gambling harm. I’m more than my struggles—I’m a traveler, a community advocate, and someone who’s found joy in unexpected places. This is my story of recovery and rediscovery.”

Community reporter, Jenny Jones, writes about the dark allure of gambling and its hidden costs to lives and communities. From what gambling harm is, to who is most susceptible and how gambling affects men and women.

Last year we delivered community reporter training workshops with women who’ve experienced the negative impact of gambling. This is what happened when a group of women with lived experience of gambling harm worked collectively to drive change.

A powerful community-led event shed light on the hidden impact of gambling, from financial struggles to mental health crises. With fresh initiatives and a call for stronger regulation, local voices are demanding action.