Help Available To Prevent Gambling Problems, Says John Hartson

5 November 2018


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believes the "tools" are in place to prevent betting habits ending up being unhealthy addictions.


Former Celtic and Wales striker Hartson has formerly discussed his betting addiction and is supporting a brand-new project by Scottish Professional Football League sponsors Ladbrokes that encourages responsible betting.


"I'm abstinent for 7 years," said the 43-year-old. "I prepare to stay clear of gambling. That is my choice. It's everything about an individual choice. Life is everything about options.


"There is assistance there. It ended up being a severe problem for me. The message is and the targets for me are to stop people getting to where I was since we're giving them tools and we're offering them a chance if the gaming does leave control, there is assistance, there's gain access to - you can prohibit yourself from your regional bookmaker, you can take yourself off the internet if you gamble online.


"There are individuals out there, problem gamblers, and we put the signs in location that if the betting is impacting your home life, your personal life, your health then there are places, there are signs and there is lots of recommendations.


"There are circumstances now and puts where people can resolve that and become responsible gamblers."


Several players in Scotland have actually served bans for breaking gaming rules and club officials are likewise forbidden from positioning bets on football matches.


"I'm not here as a previous addict telling people to stop betting," included Hartson. "I am here to help individuals not to get to where I was.


"It's not for me to inform people to stop gambling. People won't listen to me. If individuals want to gamble, they'll bet.


"We're not magicians. It's not a magic wand. If individuals wish to stop, they will seek assistance. If individuals don't wish to stop, then they just merely will not."


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