Breaking the Silence on Gambling Harm

Gambling harm is more widespread than many of us realise, and it doesn’t only affect the person placing the bet. We’re joined by Betknowmore, who will walk us through the scale of the issue, what it looks like in the workplace, and how to have the conversations that can feel difficult to start.

A key focus will be on ‘Affected Others’, those whose lives are quietly shaped by someone else’s gambling, and what workplaces can do to make a real difference. Academic studies show this group to be 8-10 strong for every one person experiencing gambling harms, impacting both personal and professional circles.

We’ll also hear directly from someone with lived experience of gambling addiction, who will share their story and the advice they’d most want workplaces to hear.

There will be time for questions, so although we realise this can be a challenging topic, we’d really value your contributions.

Background information

Some of the most important conversations are the ones we find hardest to start. This session is a safe and welcoming space to talk openly about the parts of life we don’t always discuss – including addiction. We believe that shining a light on difficult topics is how we begin to make a real difference, and every voice and experience is welcome here. This is a closed and confidential group. As we share, please be mindful that some topics may be difficult for others in the room, and that’s okay. We’re here to support one another.

• Ask the person if they will contact the Samaritans or if you can help them make The Samaritans are available to help 365 days a year via their telephone number: 116 123
• They also provide a list of other specific support via their webpages: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-having-difficult-time/other-sources-help/
• Your workplace Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may also offer support.

This meeting is for Business Disability Forum Partner and Member organisations only. Invitations have been sent to Partners and Members that are part of the Law Firm Network. If you haven’t received an invitation and you are interested in attending either just this meeting or becoming a Law Firm Network member, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

This event will operate using the ‘Chatham House’ rule.

If you require this content in a different format, contact [email protected].