A mom from Kent whose boy took his own life after becoming addicted to betting is backing calls by MPs to deal with gaming as a public health risk in a similar method to drinking and smoking.
Lesley Wade, from Minster on the Isle of Sheppey, lost her child Aaron Armstrong, whom she refers to as "family orientated", "enjoyable" and a "fantastic sportsperson," in 2014.
She said it had actually taken her numerous years to comprehend the nature of dependency which "the onus wasn't all on him" to stop gambling.
The Betting and Gaming Council stated the "frustrating majority" of individuals who gamble do so "safely and responsibly."
4 February 2026
Minster (Isle of Sheppey)
Addiction