A LOCAL MP is keen to maintain momentum in trying to ensure the right support is in place to stop gambling turning from an enjoyable hobby into a major problem.

Peter Grant, MP for Kinglassie and Cardenden, has visited a betting shop in his constituency to find out about the provisions in place to help support responsible gambling.

Peter met with members of the Association of British Bookmakers and management at Ladbrokes in Glenrothes town centre who introduced him to the range of interventions used to help stop gambling turning from a hobby into a problem.

These include self-limitation mechanisms which can be reinforced by staff, and certified self-exclusion from specific betting shops or shops within a given area.

Commenting, Peter said: “I was pleased to accept the invitation from ABB to visit one of their shops in my Glenrothes constituency, and I am grateful to the team for showing me around.

"Kept under control, gambling can be a harmless and enjoyable pastime. However, it is important to ensure that those at risk of developing problems with gambling can be identified and supported by the bookmakers they frequent".

He added: “It was interesting to learn about the measures employed by the staff at Ladbrokes to look out for warning signs in their customers that gambling is becoming more than just a leisure pursuit, and the ways in which they can intervene to help prevent an addiction forming.

“There remains a social aspect to betting shops – many people still enjoy a flutter with friends over a cup of coffee and it was nice to see this in action during my visit.

“If you’re affected in any way by problem gambling contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. The number is free and is open 8am till midnight, seven days a week. You can also visit www.begambleaware.org.”

Donald Morrison, spokesman for the betting shop trade association ABB Scotland, said: "We were delighted to welcome Peter Grant to Ladbrokes in Glenrothes where we discussed a series of initiatives the industry has introduced in recent years to promote responsible gambling in shops, and in the wider community.

“Mr Grant met a number of our staff and saw at first hand the efforts they make to ensure that customers spend within their means.

"As a result of these measures, many of them unique to betting shops, bookies are increasingly leading the way in promoting responsible gambling. They also support the local economy, contributing around £5.6 million in taxes and business rates and supporting around 240 jobs in Fife alone.”