Bereaved families of problem-gamblers criticise coroners for lack of action

Families of individuals who took their own lives due to gambling addiction have criticised coroners for failing to address the link between gambling and suicide.

Campaigners are calling for changes to ensure deaths related to gambling harm are properly investigated. Bereaved families claim that Coroners often avoid recognising gambling as a contributing factor in inquests.

Liz Ritchie, co-founder of the charity Gambling with Lives, stated, “The systems are stacked against families who want gambling to be acknowledged.” She added that coroners rarely call for reforms to prevent further deaths.

Some coroners have defended their approach, citing strict legal criteria for inquests and a lack of guidelines about gambling-related suicides.

Critics argue this leads to missed opportunities to identify systemic issues, as well as failures to recommend preventative measures.

The Gambling Commission estimates that around 400 suicides each year in the UK are linked to gambling. Campaigners say these figures highlight the urgent need for a deeper understanding of gambling addiction's impact on mental health and lives.

The families are urging the Government to introduce legislation requiring coroners to consider gambling’s role in relevant cases and to provide clearer guidance. They also want gambling companies held accountable for harmful practices contributing to addiction.

MPs and advocacy groups have echoed these calls, with renewed demands for stricter regulation of the gambling industry and more robust support for those affected.