Compulsive gambling can ruin not just the life of the addict but also the lives of his or her loved ones.
People from all walks of life can become addicted to gambling. The addiction is often referred to as the hidden illness.
Recognising that some customers may be experiencing difficulties with gambling, AIB has introduced a voluntary block feature on debit and credit card transactions which are classified as linked to gambling. Customers can request to have a block placed on their personal or business card which will block transactions identified as gambling.
AIB Managing Director Retail Banking, Geraldine Casey, said: �We understand that when gambling becomes harmful it can affect not just the person involved, but their families and friends too. It can damage relationships, finances, employment, and mental health. The financial services industry has a role to play in supporting customers as they combat any gambling difficulties they may have, and it�s important AIB does what we can to help them stop the harm. That is why we are putting in place additional supports for customers who wish to take steps to protect themselves from problem gambling.��
GAA All Ireland Football Championship winner with Armagh Ois�n McConville, who has spoken openly about overcoming his gambling problem, urged anyone experiencing gambling issues to avail of the supports on offer.
McConville said he is glad to see AIB is offering the voluntary gambling block to help their customers to begin to tackle their gambling problems. He went on to say that he would like to reassure people they can recover, that there is life after gambling addiction and that help is available to anyone who needs it.��
McConville is passionate about supporting people and guiding them towards meaningful help including from gamblingcare.ie where he also works. �The service is free, it�s confidential and it�s for you�� he added.
