Slot machine changes 'could increase gambling addiction'

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by Change | 5 Jan 2009

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Changes to the maximum prizes and stakes available in slot machines could lead to an increase in gambling addiction issues, a group claims.

The government's relaxation of rules controlling slot machines could lead to problems for those with gambling addiction issues, an organisation has warned.

Anna Drew, speaking on behalf of the Methodist Church, claims the changes could lead to more people chasing their losses.

The maximum stake on these machines, which can be found in pubs, club and amusement arcades, will double from 50p to £1, while the prizes available will increase by a similar amount from £35 to £70.

Ms Drew warns that those with gambling addiction problems often seek to recover the money they have already lost by continuing to use the machines.

She states: "We would be concerned that any increase in stakes and prize limits might be likely to increase the amount that people risk and the amount they would want to chase."

Lobbying by the industry lead to the changes, which replaced the government's previous plan to increase the prize limit to £60 and the maximum stake to 60p.

In November of last year, the NHS launched its first rehab clinic for those with betting problems.

The treatment centre employed staff including psychiatrists, psychologists and debt management experts, who will help tackle various aspects of gambling addiction.

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