around a million women in the uk are at risk of harm through problem gambling, according to new research from gambleawa re. the charity is launching a campaign aimed specifically at women, to alert them of the dangers. jon donnison reports. it s never been easier to gamble. 0nline apps are much more accessible than the old high street betting shops. this new research says it s one factor that has seen a sharp rise in the number of women with gambling issues. it estimates as many as 2.5 million british women experience some level of problem gambling. of those, around a million are causing themselves moderate harm, and out of that figure, half a million are experiencing serious harm. no, i ended up having to remortgage my house. then, after i remortgaged my house, i ended up spending that money. and then unfortunately, when the children were 10 and 11, i ended up homeless without anything, and then i ended up in a hostel with them.
this video showing how all consuming online gambling can be is part of gambleaware s new campaign to encourage women who think they might have a problem to seek help. that s what lisa did, and she now runs a support groups for other women. i understand about gambling and i understand where it takes people, and so ijust think women can come in and talk about their problems, you know, and just feel empowered and just give them that bit of hope that you can overcome a gambling addiction. gambleaware says the number of women gambling online rose sharply during the pandemic, with many people stuck at home during lockdowns. it says three key signs you might have a problem are losing track of time while gambling, spending more than you can afford, and keeping your habit secret from those around you. john donnison, bbc news. for information and support around gambling addictions, you can visit the bbc action line.