'Lived Experience' in reducing gambling-harms

Over the years there has been much discussion & debate around the role that ‘lived experience’ can play in the gambling-harm space. Indeed, some former addicts and family members tragically affected by gambling-related harm have established charities or organisations to work in this space. In addition, there have been several high-profile campaigns spearheaded by former addicts. Finally the gambling industry are now doing more and more in this space and investing huge sums of money to protect customers and minimise-harm. What unites us all is our desire to make gambling safer and particularly by those affected by gambling negatively; there is a shared desire to prevent others reaching the levels of desperation that people with gambling disorder suffer from.

Having said that, there is another side to this space as what splits that very desire to work collaboratively, and drive change is often manifested around our respective approaches to reducing-harm, perceived influence and funding (particularly among some EbE folk or 'Experts by Experience' which is a new term being used to describe those with 'negative' experience).

As most of you know I am not a campaigner, but like you all I do want to make a positive difference in this space. Therefore on Twitter (a magnet for such debate and often in an emotive & rude manner), I have posted a short anonymous survey among people who are interested in reducing gambling-related harm. This survey’s purpose is to understand people’s views and if there are any threads whereby those interested might come together. There are six questions as below to try and distil appetite and I will publish the results on Friday 01 May. There are some intelligent minds and ideas in this space so I would encourage your input if you are happy to contribute. I will produce a PDF and share all results, comments and the data sources in a transparent way in the hope we might explore ways to unite our diverse thinking.  If you have time, would you consider having a look at the survey, six questions and two minutes to complete. We received 20 responses yesterday and I'd be happy with about 30 or 40 from a broad range of minds. Thank you and link to survey as below: