Walsall supporters join fight to stop football gambling sponsorship

Charity The Big Step has formed as part of the group Gambling with Lives to tackle the issue of gambling addiction in football.

They are currently running a petition to have the issue debated in Parliament, with thousands of people already signing up to it – including Gary Lineker and Peter Shilton.

Now, Walsall Supporters’ Alliance (WSA) have given the group their backing to help prevent gambling addiction and The Big Step founder James Grimes is delighted to have them on board.

He said: “The Big Step is formed by people who have suffered gambling harm and families bereaved by gambling related suicide. The relationship between gambling and football is a common theme in our stories of harm and no doubt for many more football fans across the country.

“That’s why we are humbled to have the support of the WSA for our campaign to end gambling promotion in football. We know that the current level of gambling advertising in sport is unpopular with fans and it’s time football started listening to them, many of whom will have been negatively impacted by gambling.

“It’s encouraging to see organisations like WSA stand with us and help us get closer to a point where young football fans can watch football without being sold online gambling products.”

Alongside the petition the group are also holding a virtual walking event on March 6 and 7.

Those taking part are helping to walk a combined 1,137 miles – the same distance it would take to walk to every Premier League, Championship and Scottish Premiership club with a listed official club gambling sponsor or partner.

WSA Chairman Rob Harvey added: “Walsall Supporters’ Alliance believe that the reasons behind The Big Step event are ones that people across the UK can and should get behind.

“Betting is prevalent at the moment, even more so online because of lockdown, and it is in people’s faces several times on a daily basis. This can lead to addiction, and whether you have had an addiction to gambling yourself or you know someone who suffers from this addiction, this cause is well worth getting behind. Even if the subject hasn’t touched your life personally but you agree with the idea behind this, get involved and get your steps in.

“Not only can you help The Big Step towards their target, but you’ll get a bit of exercise in for yourself too which can boost your mental health state.”

Those interested in taking part in the walking event can contact charlotte@gamblingwithlives.org and the petition can be signed by visiting: www.change.org/p/end-gambling-advertising-and-sponsorship-in-football.