New Study Shows Most People in UK Consider Gambling as a Social Activity

According to new national research from Ladbrokes and Coral owner Entain, there is an increase in number of people in the UK who believe they should be free to choose how to spend their own leisure time and money.

More than nine in ten British adults (94%) who bet at least once a month believe they should be free to decide for themselves how to spend their spare time and money. This is an increase from 79% in December 2020 before the latest lockdown began in January 2021.

The survey of 2000 Britons – which comes as changes to betting laws are considered by the government through the Gambling Act review – reinforces that betting is a social activity that the vast majority of people enjoy safely and responsibly.

Among its key findings, the study reveals that:

• More than of half respondents (55%) regard betting and gaming as social activities which they enjoy with friends, and 25% say they have made good friends through betting and gaming.
• 78% of respondents place a bet at least once a week and typically spend around roughly half what they might spend each week in bars, pubs and restaurants.
• Over 90% of people who enjoy betting see themselves as sports fans and 83% like to bet on the outcomes.
• Around half of those who enjoy betting are in favour of the industry supporting grass roots and lower league clubs.
• Close to two-thirds (58%) of those who enjoy betting see themselves as savers and 84% have savings accounts. Only around four in ten (38%) say they actively enjoy spending money.