The Shocking Spread of 24hr Slot Machines in the UK
Explore the rising concerns, professional responses and alarming statistics surrounding adult gaming centres in the UK. What does this mean for gambling addiction?
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Click here to see what’s includedThe world of betting has been under the scanner in recent years due to the rising prevalence of ‘adult gaming centres’ or AGCs.
According to the Gambling Commission, the UK saw a 7% increase in AGCs from 1,351 in 2022 to 1,451 in 2024. It has led to an alarming surge in the availability of £2-a-spin slot machines.
With more than 14,200 of these machines now in operation across the country, each generating an average annual income of £32,600 from customers, this growing industry raises severe addiction concerns.
A study by the University of Glasgow highlighted that slot machines, both online and offline, could cause significant problems for gamblers.
Dr Matt Gaskell, a leading psychologist and the clinical head at the NHS Northern Gambling Service, finds this increase in high-street availability enormously alarming, stating that the machines are designed for long-term play and the unavoidable outcome is harm.
Despite strong evidence of the damage this causes, the gambling industry employs highly strategic measures, involving considerable legal resources and questionable dealings, to override any opposition.
Comment by Allen Carr’s Easyway:
At Allen Carr’s Easyway, we are concerned by this rising trend. Enabling increased access to gambling, also means there should be an increase in effective tools to manage and overcome addiction.
It’s vital for individuals to understand the devastating impacts of unrestrained gambling on their lives and the wider society.
Allen Carr’s Easyway to stop gambling provides practical and empathetic support for individuals grappling with these challenges and we recommend sensible regulations and awareness initiatives.
Allen Carr’s Easyway understands how gambling makes you feel and, without being judgemental or patronising, we take you through the process of how to free yourself from your addiction to gambling.
We demonstrate how gamblers fall into the trap, the psychology behind being addicted to risk and how to quit gambling once and for all.
