The Prison Radio Association (PRA), the organisation behind the award-winning Life After Prison podcast and National Prison Radio, is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new series of Hold or Fold, an insightful and hard-hitting podcast exploring the devastating impact of problem gambling. Sponsored by GambleAware, the new series premieres today and is available on all major podcast providers.

Presented by Ben Jones and Steve Girling – both of whom have first-hand experience of gambling addiction and imprisonment – Hold or Fold is a vital resource offering expert advice, support, and service signposting. Through candid conversations, personal testimonies, and expert insights, the podcast aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding gambling disorder and raise awareness of its far-reaching consequences**.

Each episode delves into key themes such as the science behind gambling disorder, and the impact of gambling harm on individuals, families, and communities. Packed with inspirational stories, Hold or Fold sheds light on the experiences of those who have struggled with gambling addiction, hit rock bottom, and fought their way to recovery.

The new series opens with comedian John Robins who shares with personal battle with gambling, its effects, hiding his addiction, recovery and his advice to those struggling. See full quotes below. Other episodes will cover women and gambling, the impact on loved ones, gambling among young people, and practical strategies for managing cravings and addiction recovery.

Host Ben Jones says: “Connecting with other people is a cornerstone of Recovery. Hold Or Fold brings inspiring stories to you, wherever you are!“

“Hold or Fold is a must listen for anyone who wants to understand more about Gambling and the Criminal Justice System. From lived experience stories to professionals sharing the support that’s available,” co-host Steve Girling adds.

Gambling-related harm is a growing public health concern. Public Health England (2018) estimated that 3.8% of the general population display risky gambling behaviour. Despite these alarming statistics, gambling addiction remains widely misunderstood and underreported. 48% of people in the UK gambling monthly, 26% of young people (aged 11-17) spending their own money on gambling, whilst 32% of women aged 35–54 according to Gambling Commission gambled in the last four weeks. This is the age group most likely to gamble. An estimated 1.3 million people in Britain are suffering from problem gambling.

Originally launched as a radio series on National Prison Radio, Hold or Fold has been listened to by 47% of people in prisons across England and Wales. Now, with funding from GambleAware, Hold or Fold is being released to the wider public as a podcast bringing its life-changing content to a broader audience. Ben and Steve know the destructive power of gambling addiction first-hand. Ben became addicted to sports betting during a period of depression, leading him to take out massive loans and steal money from his employer. He was jailed in 2019 for three years and now works at a leading charity supporting people with gambling addiction, using his experience to help others start their recovery journey. Steve’s addiction to online gambling escalated to spending up to £50,000 a day, leading to his imprisonment for four years after stealing money from his employer. Now, he runs an aftercare programme to help others in recovery rebuild their lives.

Director of System Commissioning at Gamble Aware, Ruth Champion says: “The work of Prison Radio Association is crucial in spreading awareness about the role gambling plays within the criminal justice landscape. Hold or Fold educates listeners and allows individuals who are experiencing harms to know they’re not alone and that support is available. We are truly appreciative of their work.”