UK bookmakers are reporting that business is brisker than ever, despite
widespread reports of a credit crunch - even a recession - setting in to the
economy.
While it would be expected that gambling takes a back seat during a credit
crunch and the money used for other things, bookies are saying that they even
see an increase in people wagering at their favorite shops.
Market analysts may show that the average UK punter doesn't spend
life-changing amounts at the bookies and the explanation could simply be because
these players are seeking affordable, enjoyable entertainment despite the credit
crunch.
However, problem gambling groups such as GamCare say that the
recession is actually pushing up the number of gamblers because punters are
seeking quick ways of covering their mounting debts.
"We can't say either way whether there is a link between the recession and an
increase in gambling because the data is not available," said a spokesperson for
GamCare. "But the issue with gambling in the credit crunch is that the problem
gamblers' friends and family may suffer more as someone will a gambling problem
will not think 'I've run out of money, I'll stop gambling.'"
"Money put away for other things might be gambled," continued GamCare, "even
if things are really tight. This could put a lot of pressure on the problem
gambler's friend and family, and we'd like to make it clear that our helpline
services are for them too, to talk about how it is affecting them."
In a bid to save the struggling gambling industry, the government has bowed
to pressure and increased the upper limits on fruit machines from £35 to £70, and doubling stakes from 50p to £1.
Lottery ticket sales have also increased considerably, according to
statistics.
