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Hold or Fold is the Prison Radio Association’s podcast that deep dives into the potential harm that can come from problem gambling and how this impacts on the criminal justice system. From Tuesday 4th March, it is back for another enlightening and powerful series.
Gambling-related harm is a growing public health concern. Public Health England (2018) estimated that 3.8% of the general population display risky gambling behaviour. Despite these alarming statistics, gambling addiction remains widely misunderstood and underreported.
48% of people in the UK are gambling monthly, 26% of young people (aged 11-17) are spending their own money on gambling, whilst 32% of women aged 35–54 according to Gambling Commission gambled in the last four weeks. This is the age group most likely to gamble. An estimated 1.3 million people in Britain are suffering from problem gambling.
Presenters Ben Jones and Steve Girling have first-hand experience, having both experienced addiction and spent time in custody as a result of gambling. With funding from GambleAware, they first hosted the series on National Prison Radio and last year it was released publically as a podcast. Now, it’s back for its second series.
Hold or Fold is the first of its kind. It is a vital resource offering expert advice, support, and service signposting. Through candid conversations, personal testimonies, and expert insights, the podcast aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding gambling disorder and raise awareness of its far-reaching consequences.
Each episode delves into key themes such as the science behind gambling disorder, and the impact of gambling harm on individuals, families, and communities. Packed with inspirational stories, Hold or Fold sheds light on the experiences of those who have struggled with gambling addiction, hit rock bottom, and fought their way to recovery.
The new series opens with comedian John Robins sharing his personal battle with gambling addiction. Other episodes will cover women and gambling, the impact on loved ones, gambling among young people, and practical strategies for managing cravings and addiction recovery.
Host Ben Jones says: “Connecting with other people is a cornerstone of recovery. Hold Or Fold brings inspiring stories to you, wherever you are!“
“Hold or Fold is a must listen for anyone who wants to understand more about Gambling and the Criminal Justice System. From lived experience stories to professionals sharing the support that’s available.” Host Steve Girling adds.
GambleAware is the leading independent charity and strategic commissioner of gambling harm education, prevention, early intervention, and treatment across Great Britain.
GambleAware commissions the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN), a group of organisations across Great Britain which provides free, confidential treatment, as well as the National Gambling Helpline which takes around 55,000 calls and online chats a year.
Their prevention programmes are major behaviour change campaigns, education and training programmes, and their website offers support advice and tools for those experiencing gambling harm.
“The work of Prison Radio Association is crucial in spreading awareness about the role gambling plays within the criminal justice landscape. Hold or Fold educates listeners and allows individuals who are experiencing harms to know they’re not alone and that support is available. We are truly appreciative of their work.” – Ruth Champion, Director of System Commissioning at Gamble Aware.
We are so proud of our work with GambleAware and everything we have achieved so far through Hold or Fold. Through our podcast and by sharing experiences and support, we promote the conversation around gambling and addiction to change and break down the shame and stigma that is so often associated with a gambling disorder.
A new series of Hold or Fold starts on Tuesday 4th March.
Hold or Fold is available on Spotify, iTunes and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow and subscribe:
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Hold or Fold is made by the Prison Radio Association – a registered charity. Shows like Hold or Fold help people to cope with life inside prison and thrive on release. If you would like to support our work, and enhance the futures of people in prison across the UK you can make a donation at prison.radio/donate.