A 36-year-old football fan died by suicide after a severe gambling addiction drove him to use unregulated overseas betting websites, a coroner's court has heard.
Family Blames 'Outdated' Gambling Laws
Oliver Long took his own life on 23 February 2024. His family told East Sussex Coroner’s Court that his mind had been 'consumed' by gambling. His sister, Chloe Long, delivered a powerful critique of the authorities, stating that current legislation and oversight by the Gambling Commission and the Government are both 'outdated' and 'poor'. She insisted her brother's death was entirely preventable.
Failed Safeguards and a Turn to Unlicensed Sites
The inquest heard that Mr Long, who had been diagnosed with a severe gambling disorder, had tried to use self-exclusion tools on UK-licensed platforms. When those measures failed to block his access, he turned to gambling websites based outside UK jurisdiction, which are not bound by British consumer protection rules.
Senior Coroner Laura Bradford recorded a conclusion of suicide. Moved by the evidence, she has taken the significant step of ordering a Prevention of Future Deaths report. This report will focus specifically on the dangers posed by unlicensed gambling operators and the risks they present to vulnerable individuals.
A Call for Action on Regulatory Gaps
This tragic case highlights critical flaws in the UK's gambling safety net. It underscores how determined individuals with an addiction can circumvent national safeguards, finding easy access to predatory systems online. The coroner's report will place direct pressure on regulators and policymakers to address the loopholes that allow overseas sites to target British citizens.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress or struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans in confidence on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website.
