Help Available To Prevent Gambling Problems, Says John Hartson

5 November 2018


close panel


Share page


Copy link


About sharing


John Hartson thinks the "tools" are in location to avoid gaming practices ending up being unhealthy addictions.


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


"I'm abstinent for 7 years," stated the 43-year-old. "I plan to remain clear of gaming. That is my choice. It's everything about a personal choice. Life is all about choices.


"There is help there. It ended up being a major problem for me. The message is and the targets for me are to stop individuals getting to where I was due to the fact that we're offering them tools and we're providing an opportunity if the betting does get out of control, there is aid, there's access - you can ban yourself from your regional bookie, you can take yourself off the web if you bet online.


"There are individuals out there, issue gamblers, and we put the indications in location that if the wagering is impacting your home life, your individual life, your health then there are places, there are signs and there is great deals of suggestions.


"There are circumstances now and positions where people can solve that and ended up being responsible bettors."


Several players in Scotland have served bans for breaking betting rules and club authorities are likewise prohibited from putting bets on football matches.


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


"It's not for me to inform people to stop gambling. People will not listen to me. If people wish to gamble, they'll bet.


"We're not magicians. It's not a magic wand. If people wish to stop, they will look for aid. If people don't want to stop, then they just simply won't."


Around the BBC


BBC Sport Scottish Football


Related internet links


SPFL


The BBC is not accountable for the content of external websites.