LGBTQIA+ Communities Face Higher Gambling Harm Risks, UK Study Finds

New research from a study by Bournemouth University suggests that members of the LGBTQIA+ community face disproportionately high levels of gambling-related harm. There are also further barriers when it comes to accessing support.

The study was published in the Journal of Psychology and Sexuality and looked at the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ adults who gamble.

Three key things affected participants’ experiences:

• The use of gambling as a coping mechanism.
• Limited inclusivity in support services.
• Experiences of discrimination within gambling environments.

Gambling harm is widely recognised already as a public health issue. However, the findings suggest that the specific experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals are underexplored and insufficiently addressed.

Research focuses on lived experiences

The study involved 31 LGBTQIA+ participants in the UK. They were all aged between 20 and 59 and had experience with online gambling.

Semi-structured interviews were used to look into how identity influenced gambling behaviour. Experiences of harm and access to support were also discussed.

Previous studies suggested that men report higher levels of gambling harm. Yet there is growing evidence that sexual and gender minorities face greater risks. Lesbian and bisexual women, as well as transgender and non-binary individuals, are more vulnerable.

Researchers noticed, though, that these communities are still generally absent from mainstream research. They also don’t feature in public health discussions.

Gambling as a coping mechanism

There was a clear conclusion in the research. That of gambling being a form of emotional escape. Participants described using it to cope with things like minority stress, discrimination and feelings of exclusion.

For some, it offered a temporary distraction from anxiety, depression and identity-related challenges. Many also reported limited family support and social isolation. This further contributed to their use of gambling as a coping strategy.

Barriers to accessing support services

Participants reported concerns about discrimination, lack of understanding and a lack of services tailored to their needs. Some expressed discomfort about disclosing their identity when accessing support. They feared judgement or bias.

There was a clear preference for LGBTQIA+-specific services. Individuals felt they could be open without fear of stigma with this.

It was highlighted that current support systems often fail to reflect the diversity of those experiencing gambling harm. Thus, their effectiveness is limited.

Gambling environments seen as unwelcoming

Participants also described negative experiences within gambling environments themselves.

Betting shops and casinos were often perceived as unwelcoming or discriminatory. This meant many individuals favoured online gambling instead. Though online platforms may feel more accessible, researchers noted that they can also increase risk. This is because of their convenience and constant availability.

Call for inclusive, culturally competent support

The study concludes that addressing gambling harm within LGBTQIA+ communities needs to be more inclusive with culturally competent approaches.

Researchers recommend:

• Improved staff training.
• Visible signals of inclusivity.
• Closer collaboration with LGBTQIA+ organisations to make sure services are accessible and appropriate.

The findings also align with broader healthcare recommendations. This includes recent proposals published in The Lancet, which call for affirming, intersectional and culturally responsive care for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Dr Bush-Evans recently presented the research at the House of Commons during the launch of Recover with Pride. This was the UK’s first dedicated LGBTQ+ gambling harm support programme.

The overarching message is clear: gambling harm within marginalised communities is not a niche issue. Instead, it’s a wider public health and equality concern.