Cheltenham festival is the biggest time of year for the bookies. But with little support and advice that the festival has to offer, what affect is this having on young adults?
A growing number of 18-24-year olds are now attending the festival. Taking risks and spending more money. The festival has a restriction on under 18s coming to the week’s festivities, but children can attend if accompanied by an adult.
This time last week…#InternationalDayOfHappiness pic.twitter.com/MEdCgXVJ4R
— CheltenhamRacecourse (@CheltenhamRaces) March 20, 2019
In a report from the Gambling Commission Gov UK, they found that 14% of 11-16-year olds have gambled their money on betting sites. Showing how easy it is for young people to get into gambling.
With little support offered in the Gloucestershire area, it’s understandable how young adults get pulled into this silent addiction.
#Chelfie #Chelfie #cheltraces @CheltenhamRaces Having a great time here at the races!! Great to see my horse winning!!!?????? pic.twitter.com/vb6PtATvVl
— Alex Taylor (@Alextaylorr__) December 14, 2018
According to our own research, 10% of 18-24-year olds gamble every day and some have reported losing up to £1000 whilst betting, with most winning on average only £20-£100. So, with little reward for what their spending, where’s the limit?
One student at the University of Gloucestershire says he’s lost up to 4 digits in one bet and never won anything over £100, saying he has found no support in the Gloucestershire area. Whilst being at the Cheltenham festival this year he also reported seeing one man bet £10,000 on Sir Erec, the second horse to die here at the festival this year.
BeGambleAwear says these are the signs to be wary of if your anxious that you might have a gambling addiction:
-Spending more money/time on gambling
-Finding it hard to manage or stop
-Losing interest in usual activities or hobbies
-Always thinking or talking about gambling
-Gambling to get out of financial debt
-Neglecting work, school, family…
-Feeling anxious, worried, guilty or depressed
For help, support and advice about problem gambling please get in touch with the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 pic.twitter.com/t2IjJ8UNGf
— BeGambleAware (@BeGambleAware) March 21, 2019
It’s clear that younger people are beginning to become more aware of betting apps and games, and with more young adults attending the Cheltenham races this year, is it time for the Jockey Club to take more responsibility for this silent addiction.
For any advice visit the NHS website or BeGambleAwear.
