Peter Shilton Speaks On Gambling Addiction Ahead Of Charity Fundraiser
Former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton has spoken about the "terrible addiction" of gambling ahead of a fundraising night for Shilton's Silverlining, the charity he set up with his wife Steph to support people affected by gambling harm.
Shilton, England's most capped player with 125 appearances, and Steph spoke to their local paper, the Gazette, about the September 24 event at Harbour Lights Seafood Restaurant in Walton, Essex.
"I have lived experience. I know what a terrible addiction it is, it is terrible," Shilton said.
"You can lose everything: family, money. This charity is something that I want to do, and with Steph's help and experience, we have put a really good charity together."
Shilton beat a gambling addiction that spanned 45 years in 2015 and has since campaigned publicly on the issue, including working with government ministers to raise awareness of gambling-related harm.
What Shilton's Silverlining Offers
The charity, launched in May, provides a confidential brief intervention service offering advice on debt support and access to specialist therapy.
It also supports family members affected by a loved one's gambling and provides relapse-prevention aftercare, an area Shilton says is often overlooked by other services.
"There isn't another charity out there like this which offers a comprehensive support system, not just for the gambler but the affected others," he said.
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The September 24 fundraiser runs from 6pm and will feature food and live entertainment, with tickets priced at £60.
It is the charity's second fundraising event since launching, and the couple say they intend to keep future events local to the Essex community where they live. "It's onwards and upwards, what we've done in a short amount of time is fantastic," Shilton said.
Anyone affected by gambling harm can find free, confidential support through the National Gambling Helpline or via responsible gambling support services.
