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On May 17th, I will be running the Hackney Half Marathon to raise money for Gambling with Lives, in memory of my cousin Jack, who took his own life in 2017 after struggling with a gambling addiction.
Gambling with Lives was founded in 2018 by bereaved families and works towards a world free from gambling-related suicide. The charity supports families who have lost loved ones, raises awareness of the harms caused by gambling disorder, and campaigns for legislative change to prevent gambling-related harm and suicide.
Gambling harm is a significant and often overlooked issue in the UK. Around 1.4 million adults in Britain are estimated to have a gambling problem, and millions more are affected by the consequences. Estimates suggest that up to 496 suicides every year in England are linked to gambling, and people with a gambling disorder are at a much higher risk of suicidal behaviour.
By running the Hackney Half, I’m hoping to raise funds for the vital work Gambling with Lives does to support families and prevent others from going through the same loss.
Any support or donation is hugely appreciated. Please check out the link below for futher information on gambling harms.