Beacon Counselling Trust is proud to support the launch of Lancashire County Council's new "You Can Make the Noise Stop" campaign, a public health initiative designed to raise awareness of gambling-related harms and encourage people to seek support when they need it.
The campaign has been developed in partnership with Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Blackpool Council to shine a light on the often-hidden impact of gambling harm and the support available across the region.
On Friday, Nicola Jaques, representative of Beacon Counselling Trust, joined Lancashire County Council's Public Health Team at the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show held at Salesbury Hall, Ribchester. The annual event attracts more than 21,000 visitors across the three-day show, providing an important platform for engaging with local communities and promoting positive health and wellbeing messages.
Throughout the day, representatives spoke with members of the public, partner organisations and fellow exhibitors about the realities of gambling harm, the growing public health response across Lancashire, and the importance of early intervention. Visitors were invited to take part in an interactive gambling harms data insights quiz, prompting conversations around risk, awareness, prevalence and the ways gambling can impact individuals, families and communities.
The timing of the campaign is particularly significant. With high-profile sporting events generating increased attention, betting promotions and gambling opportunities, many people may find themselves at greater risk.
While gambling is often promoted as part of the sporting experience, research and lived experience tell us that periods of intensive sporting activity can be especially challenging for those already struggling with gambling-related issues or those in recovery.
For some individuals, gambling may begin as occasional entertainment but gradually become more difficult to control. Signs that someone may be experiencing gambling-related harm can include:
- Spending increasing amounts of time gambling.
- Betting more money than they can afford to lose.
- Chasing losses in an attempt to recover money.
- Feeling anxious, stressed, restless or irritable when unable to gamble.
- Becoming preoccupied with betting opportunities and sporting events.
- Borrowing money or experiencing financial difficulties.
- Keeping gambling activity secret from family and friends.
- Withdrawing from relationships, work or social activities.
One of the key messages shared during the event was that gambling harm does not only affect the individual who gambles. Families, partners, friends, children, workplaces and communities can all experience the consequences. Recognising concerns early and starting conversations without judgement can make a significant difference in helping someone access support.
Alongside promoting the new campaign, Beacon Counselling Trust was also pleased to showcase its Battling the Odds programme. The programme uses the power of lived experience to educate communities, challenge stigma and increase understanding of gambling-related harm within the armed forces community. By sharing personal stories, evidence-based information and opportunities for learning, Battling the Odds helps individuals and organisations better recognise risk factors and understand how to respond effectively.
The conversations held throughout the Royal Lancashire Show demonstrated a growing appetite for greater awareness, education and prevention. Many visitors reflected on the increasing presence of gambling advertising during sporting events and welcomed opportunities to learn more about the potential risks and available support services.
The launch of "You Can Make the Noise Stop" represents an important step forward in Lancashire's commitment to tackling gambling-related harms through a public health approach.
The campaign aims to help people understand the impact gambling can have on health, finances, relationships and wellbeing, whilst making it clear that free, confidential support is available for anyone affected.
At Beacon Counselling Trust, we believe that raising awareness, strengthening communities and amplifying lived experience voices are essential parts of reducing harm and supporting recovery. We are proud to work alongside Lancashire County Council and partners in helping people recognise the signs, start conversations and access support when they need it most.
If gambling is affecting you or someone you care about, support is available. You can find out more about the "You Can Make the Noise Stop" campaign and local support services through Lancashire County Council's gambling harm resources.