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23 April 2025
Recent data from the Gambling Survey for Great Britain suggests that 1.3 million adults in the UK experience problem gambling, with a further 2.2 million at risk of addiction. The harms associated with problem gambling include financial instability, poor relationships, and mental health struggles.
Colin Brown, the founder of Gambling Leap, an organisation that offers support to people experiencing gambling addiction, is all too aware of the dangers linked to problem gambling.
Colin visited Pinpoint HQ for a talk on the risks of gambling addiction and the help available to those experiencing problem gambling. We spoke to him about why greater awareness of gambling addiction is needed and what businesses can do to help.
Why did you set up Gambling Leap?
Colin Brown: I struggled with a gambling addiction for 25 years and tried to stop gambling literally hundreds of times with no success. Then, on 13 September 2023, I placed my last bet. Since then, I established Gambling Leap to deliver awareness and prevention talks.
I didn't think I had a hope of stopping gambling, but I have and hopefully, I can give others inspiration that they can beat addiction.
Why did you set up Gambling Leap?
Colin Brown: We educate people on the impact gambling harms can have, not only on the individual but on everyone around them. I have also set up an online group with over 100 members and counting, which is designed to give peer support to anyone suffering from problem gambling.
Why is it important for companies to raise awareness about the risks of gambling?
Colin Brown: I aim to break the stigma surrounding gambling addiction. Gambling isn't just about money - it alters the neuropathways to the brain and can have a severe impact on mental health in the workplace. According to the charity Gambling with Lives, every day someone in the UK takes their life because of gambling. This needs to be addressed. I believe employers should foster a supportive environment to help identify the signs early-on.
Why is it important for companies to raise awareness about the risks of gambling?
Colin Brown: I aim to break the stigma surrounding gambling addiction. Gambling isn't just about money - it alters the neuropathways to the brain and can have a severe impact on mental health in the workplace. According to the charity Gambling with Lives, every day someone in the UK takes their life because of gambling. This needs to be addressed. I believe employers should foster a supportive environment to help identify the signs early-on.
How were you introduced to Pinpoint?
Colin Brown: Jenna Waring from Pinpoint reached out after seeing my social media posts highlighting the dangers of gambling in today’s society. She was very welcoming and invited me in for a chat about the services I provide.
What are you hoping to achieve from this partnership with Pinpoint?
Colin Brown: I am very grateful to Pinpoint for giving me the platform to showcase my intentions and hopefully if they think the presentation is worthwhile, they can share and encourage other businesses to address this important wellbeing issue.
20% of the UK population is impacted either directly or indirectly by gambling. There is support available. I encourage anyone experiencing problem gambling to visit Gambling Leap to see how we can help.
Many thanks to Colin for contributing to this blog.
