Public Strongly Backs Warnings on Lottery Products
GambleAware has renewed calls for the National Lottery to clearly signpost gambling harm support services on tickets, scratchcards, and advertising. The UK charity insists that, given the Lottery’s wide reach, it should help prevent gambling-related harm—even if people often view it as low-risk entertainment.
Fresh data from GambleAware’s forthcoming Annual Treatment and Support Survey 2024 underscores strong public support. Nearly three in four adults (74%) believe National Lottery products should direct players to help services. Meanwhile, 69% say the Lottery’s advertising should carry similar warnings, putting it in line with other gambling operators.
Thousands of Players May Be at Risk
The research estimates that up to 600,000 National Lottery players could already be experiencing problem gambling. Although the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee urged the National Lottery to adopt clear signposting back in 2022, no changes have been made so far.
Andy Boucher, Chair of GambleAware’s Trustees, acknowledged the Lottery’s significant contributions to good causes. However, he stressed that the organisation also holds a responsibility to protect its players.
“We recognise the great work the National Lottery has done supporting a range of worthy causes over many years. In the public’s mind, it is there to do good in the community, and so we believe it is also the right thing for it to look after the people who play the National Lottery.”
Boucher emphasised that signposting help services should become a minimum standard, as it already is for other charity lotteries.
National Lottery Can Play Key Role in Prevention
GambleAware argues that the National Lottery’s trusted reputation makes it uniquely positioned to lead efforts to reduce gambling harm. The survey found that 84% of people recognise the National Lottery as a form of gambling, while almost half disagree with claims that its products are harmless.
Moreover, GambleAware continues to invest in research, recently revealing that individuals with ADHD and autism are twice as likely to face gambling-related challenges. Ultimately, the charity believes that clearer warnings on National Lottery products and ads could make a meaningful difference in harm prevention across the UK.
