New Research Highlights Gambling Risks for Seafarers

The research paper, “Understanding and addressing gambling harms among seafarers in the UK,” brings much-needed attention to an under-researched area affecting maritime communities. It was published by the University of Bristol’s Personal Finance Research Centre, a leading research centre which has helped to shape public policy through advising government departments and regulators for more than 25 years. 

Far reaching consequences 

Across Britain, around 2.7% of adults — approximately 1.4 million people — meet the criteria for problem gambling. Gambling harms can have far-reaching financial, emotional and social consequences, often affecting families and communities as well as individuals. 

While there has historically been limited research into gambling among seafarers specifically, the study highlights how the nature of seafaring work may increase vulnerability to harmful gambling behaviours. Key risk factors include: 

• Long periods away from home
• Isolation and high-stress working environments
• Increased access to online gambling while at sea  

With an estimated 23,700 active UK seafarers, even a relatively small number experiencing gambling harms could have a significant impact across maritime communities. 

The role of maritime welfare charities 

The report emphasises the important role that maritime welfare charities can play in early identification, prevention and support for those affected by gambling harms. 

As part of the research process, the University of Bristol team engaged with several major charities, ensuring the report reflects real-world experience and frontline insight. 

We are particularly grateful to our project partners for their contributions to this work, including: 

• Naval Children’s Charity
• Sailors’ Children’s Society
• The Seafarers’ Advice and Information Line (SAIL) run by Citizens Advice Greenwich.