Bereaved Mum Backs Calls For Gambling Regulation

A mom from Kent whose boy took his own life after becoming addicted to gaming is backing calls by MPs to treat betting as a public health threat in a similar method to drinking and smoking.


Lesley Wade, from Minster on the Isle of Sheppey, lost her Armstrong, whom she refers to as "family orientated", "fun" and a "brilliant sportsperson," in 2014.


She stated it had taken her several years to understand the nature of addiction and that "the onus wasn't all on him" to stop betting.


The Betting and Gaming Council stated the "frustrating majority" of individuals who bet do so "safely and properly."


4 February 2026


Minster (Isle of Sheppey)


Addiction