#WeAretheEvidenceToo

A collective submission delivered to DCMS collated by over 80 lived experience members of GamLEARN and GamFam for the review of the Gambling Act 2005 Terms of Reference.

GamLEARN wanted to support and be part of a collective response to the call for evidence by the DCMS for the review of the Gambling Act 2005. We held various meet ups with our members, researchers, policy advisers including professionals working in the sector and was overwhelmed by the time, passion, and commitment from everyone involved.

#WeAretheEvidenceToo was created, here you will read several individual experiences, honest and detailed about their journeys. We are proud to support the voices of lived experience from individuals and their loved ones who have been impacted by the devastating effect gambling has had on their lives. #WeAretheEvidenceToo had the opportunity to meet with ministers who have led on this, up till the publish of the white paper. If you would like to add your support to the report and are happy for your name to be added as an e-signature, please email info@gamlearn.org.uk

Download the Report

Feedback

GamLEARN and GamFam would like to thank all those who joined and supported our fantastic speakers who shared their experiences.

Today demonstrated that collectively, the voices of Lived Experience DO have an important part to play in the Gambling Act Review. Please join us by signing the #WeAreTheEvidenceToo report at info@gamlearn.org.uk

{

Voices of lived experience have made a huge impact in the debate on gambling. Everyone involved –
from the handful 10+ years ago to the 100+ who produced #WeAretheEvidenceToo and others – should be applauded. And thanks to the MPs who have been so steadfast.

Charles Ritchie (GwL)

{

Your experience could play a vital role in tackling the stigma associated with gambling harm & encourage positive change. If you want to be part of our vital research & help people affected by gambling harm get the help they need, please reach out. #tacklingstigma #gamblingharm.

Tackling Gambling Stigma

{

Those who organised the meeting with the Minister y/day, who took part & who observed should be proud. Hopefully the white paper will greatly improve both safety & fairness in future UK gambling markets. Not easy, but it’s possible. Listen to the customers, not the lobbyists.

Jimmy Justice

{

Excellent to listen in and hear the stories from other LE. Found @CPhilpOfficial very engaging. Huge opportunity here to be the benchmark for the rest of the world in reducing gambling harm.

Nick Phillips

{

This is what we have all been working towards. Putting a stop to coercive, manipulative offers of
free bets and incentives.

Julie Martin

{

Emotional and impactful. Well done to everyone who participated at this meeting. I for one am humbled and privileged to be a part of this community. Our voices grow in strength.

Chrissy B. (aka Amanda)

{

If only I’d have known, as a 20 year old, thinking the unthinkable and feeling alone, that there was an army of people I’d never met fighting to give people like me a better chance at life. To EVERYONE who joined, to EVERYONE who fights for change, me and younger me thank you.

The Girl Gambler

{

Good that @CPhilpOfficial + @DCMS team engaged constructively with the presentation team and dozens of observers. They heard just a small selection of our many stories of harm but recognised the devastating impact gambling harm can have on individuals and families. Thank you.

MJ

{

A real honour to listen and be amongst such courageous and brave individuals ❤️ Well done to everyone who shared their experiences @GamLearn and @GamFamCharity for organising Thank you to @CPhilpOfficial and @DCMS for sharing this space with us and asking some great questions.”

Steve

{

Well done to all of you for your work ensuring that the voice of lived experience is amplified in the #gamblingact review. I sit in admiration at your tenacity, bravery and commitment.

Jo Evans