Even when aware of the significant cost gambling addiction has on the United Kingdom's government and society, the scale of industry in the country may come as a surprise. As data from H2 Gambling Capital cited by The Guardian shows, the UK is the largest regulated online gambling market in the world - and by some distance. With total gross gaming revenue of $12.5 billion in 2021, the UK market outstrips even the United States ($11.0 billion).
This data is published against the backdrop of an increased interest and awareness among UK police forces of gambling addiction's influence on crime. Ten forces already screen suspects for this addiction - alongside the standard drug and alcohol related inquiries - and seven more are reported to be implemented this procedure in 2023.
