Most people in the UK gamble at some time in their lives. However, gambling has been referred to as the invisible addiction. It has the potential to ruin the lives not only of the gamblers themselves but also of their families. This book examines the current trends in various types of gambling in the UK, the problems that gamblers experience and ways of seeking help. The information comes from a wide variety of sources and includes government reports and statistics, newspaper reports, features, magazine articles and surveys, literature from lobby groups and charitable organizations. "Issues" is a comprehensive reference source addressing contemporary social issues. The books in the series express a range of opinions and information and are designed for use with secondary school students and above.

Table of Contents

Current trends: gambling, a safe bet?; lottery gives women a taste for gambling; lottery guide; where does the money go?; gambling behaviour in Britain; chips with everything; on-line gambling; take a gamble on digital betting; play-as-you-view; Blackpool to be Las Vegas-on-sea; mega-casinos on UK horizon. Compulsive gambling: so gambling is safe; you want to bet?; Britain rolled over by lure of the lottery; a sure bet?; excessive participation; gambling does destroy lives; confessions of an online gambler; signs, symptoms and stresses; would you believe a problem gambler aged 8?; GA and compulsive gambling; supporting a problem gambler; so gambling is all about luck? Wrong!; overcoming compulsive gambling; gambling FAQs; under-16s and the National Lottery; levy plan to help gambling addicts; getting high on gambling; responsible gambling; the hidden addiction.