The first time I can recall declaring I was a compulsive gambler was during a phone conversation with the bank about an increase in my overdraft limit. I had previously honestly declared the extent of my indebtedness (six or so maxed-out credit cards). The bank unexpectedly offered me a consolidation loan with a surplus £3,000. “That’s for you,” the loan officer said when I told him the total offered was more than I needed.
I read about Luke Ashton’s suicide with profound sadness (‘Gambling controlled him’: inquest into man’s death to look at Betfair role, 11 June). I haven’t had a bet for more than 19 years, but his story might have been mine. One thing that might help gamblers would be a ban on the use of credit. If gamblers had to deposit funds with bookmakers in advance, it might rein in out-of-control behaviour.
Gerry Brett
Jianye, Nanjing, China
• We welcome the Guardian’s plans to ban gambling advertising across its online and print outlets (Report, 15 June). At GambleAware, we’re concerned about the impact advertising and marketing can have, particularly on children and young people. Our research shows that 96% of 11- to 24-year-olds have been exposed to gambling marketing activities in the last month.
The government’s recent white paper missed an opportunity to strengthen regulation on gambling advertising and marketing. Action in this area is critical to protect young people from gambling harm.
Alexia Clifford
GambleAware
• In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is at 988 or chat for support. You can also text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis text line counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org
