GamCare and former Scotland Manager, Alex McLeish, have partnered to demonstrate the support that is available to people in Glasgow who have gambling issues, ahead of this weekend’s ‘Old Firm’ derby.

Recent research by the problem gambling charity revealed that over six million people in Britain know someone with a gambling issue, whilst a quarter admit to regretting a bet they have placed.

GamCare also operates the National Gambling Helpline – a 24/7 helpline that people can call for free practical advice, information and support around gambling. The charity also runs free, confidential treatment sessions for anyone in the Glasgow area, online or in-person.  

Lisa-Marie, Scotland Team Leader from GamCare commented: “At GamCare, we know that people in Glasgow who use our services can find it difficult to enjoy live sports, particularly games such as the Old Firm derby. 

“With potentially more temptation this weekend ahead of the game, there’s an added importance that people know where they can turn to if they need support with their gambling.”

The charity has revealed that since 2018, it has provided help for more than 500 in the area to tackle the emotional and physical side-effects associated with gambling, stating that it wants everyone to know that local support is available for free – for themselves or somebody else.

“We know from our data that it is predominantly men who reach out to us in need of support,” added Lisa-Marie. “In Glasgow, over three-quarters of those who have sought help with us identify as male. 

“However it also needs to be stressed that this is not simply a men’s issue; we’re seeing an increasing number of women accessing our services across Great Britain and there really is no one-size fits all when it comes to providing support.” 

Finally, the group underlined five signs that a person should look for when concerned whether a person is problem gambling. These include: being withdrawn (not wanting to join in or losing interest in usual activities), a change in mood, sleeping problems, financial signs and lying.