Paul Merson with the installation outside the Emirates Stadium – seen by thousands of fans on last Sunday’s matchday

A BILLBOARD highlighting the “crushing” impact of gambling has been unveiled outside the Emirates Stadium by a former footballer this week.

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson, who had a gambling disorder for 35 years, has thrown his support behind a Gambling Aware campaign which tackles the stigma associated with gambling and encourages people to get help.

The billboard has been physically crumpled to represent the crushing impact gambling addictions can have.

Mr Merson said: “My gambling addiction left me feeling like I was a bad person, when really I just needed help. The stigma around this very real public health issue means that so many vulnerable people feel they can’t talk to their loved ones or seek support, and something has to change. Gambling harms can affect anyone, nobody is immune.”

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Dr Ellie Cannon, a GP from London, said: “Whilst we have made good progress as a society in addressing stigma associated with other conditions, like alcohol addiction and HIV, perceptions around gambling are still outdated. The time to tackle this is now.”

You can access free and confidential advice GambleAware or contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.

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