15 June 2026
A powerful lived experience story from Kai, highlighting how gambling can turn moments of connection into moments of crisis, particularly for those already facing financial hardship or housing instability. Kai now works as a Community Engagement Lead for Ara Recovery for All. If you need support the details are at the end of the article.
For many people, major sporting events like the World Cup are a time of excitement, connection and celebration. Friends gather together, communities unite behind their teams, and people enjoy the highs and lows that make sport so special.
But for those experiencing gambling harm, events like the World Cup can also bring increased risk and pressure.
I know this from personal experience.
During the 2010 World Cup, I had already gambled away all of my money. I was relying on a handful of “free bets” and promotions, convincing myself they might somehow get me out of the mess I was in. Looking back, I can see how unrealistic that was.
The truth is that free bets are rarely free. They are designed to encourage further gambling, keep people engaged and create the feeling that there is little to lose. For me, they became another reason to continue chasing losses and another excuse not to stop.
Even if those bets had won, the reality is I would have carried on gambling. That was the nature of my addiction. Winning wasn’t the solution; it was simply fuel to keep going.
At that point, I wasn’t paying bills properly, I was struggling to cover my rent, creditors were chasing me, and my mental health was deteriorating. Gambling had taken over so much of my life that it had even stolen something I genuinely loved. Watching the World Cup had always been a passion, but I could no longer enjoy the sport itself. Every match became about the next bet, the next accumulator, the next attempt to win back what I’d lost.
The difficult question I often ask myself is: if I was struggling with my gambling back then, why did it take another ten years before I properly reached out for support?
Part of the answer is stigma. Part of it is shame. Part of it is believing that if I just tried harder, I could fix it myself. Like many people, I didn’t realise that support existed, and I certainly didn’t realise that recovery was possible.
Today, through my work with Ara Recovery For All, I have the privilege of supporting others who may be facing similar challenges. We know that gambling harms can affect anyone, but they can have a particularly devastating impact on people who are already facing financial hardship, housing insecurity or homelessness.
That’s why Ara works closely with partners across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to raise awareness of gambling harms, provide training, and connect people with free, confidential support. Whether someone is worried about their own gambling, concerned about a loved one, or experiencing the impact of someone else’s gambling, help is available.
As another World Cup approaches, it’s important to enjoy the tournament safely. If you choose to gamble, think carefully before taking up so-called “free bet” offers. Make sure your essential bills are paid first, never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and remember that gambling should never be seen as a way to make money or solve financial difficulties.
Most importantly, enjoy the football for what it is: a chance to support your team, spend time with others and be part of a shared experience.
If gambling is no longer feeling like fun, if you’re worried about your own gambling, someone else’s gambling, or you’ve been affected by another person’s gambling, please reach out. Ara Recovery For All provides free, confidential support, and recovery is possible.
For support, contact Ara Recovery For All:
Email: ARAGamblingService@recovery4all.co.uk
Call: 0330 134 0286
Online: https://www.recovery4all.co.uk/gambling-help/get-support/
