Gambling harms thrive in plain sight, especially in less affluent communities like Govanhill. With bookmakers on every corner and addictive mechanics embedded in video games, the seeds of addiction are planted early, often in the lives of vulnerable young people. Eva O’Donovan unpacks the systemic exploitation and the hidden struggles of those caught in its grip, shedding light on the urgent need for change.

Two innovative initiatives are making strides in supporting vulnerable communities. From empowering the Roma community with resources on gambling harm to offering a safe digital space for women affected by gambling, these projects foster meaningful change.

“Relentless and insidious marketing tactics are drawing people into the grip of gambling addiction, with devastating impacts on vulnerable individuals. It's time to confront the unchecked spread of this harmful advertising."

“At 72, I’ve lived a life full of highs, lows, and resilience from overcoming gambling harm. I’m more than my struggles—I’m a traveler, a community advocate, and someone who’s found joy in unexpected places. This is my story of recovery and rediscovery.”

Community reporter, Jenny Jones, writes about the dark allure of gambling and its hidden costs to lives and communities. From what gambling harm is, to who is most susceptible and how gambling affects men and women.

Are you or a loved one struggling with gambling? There are plenty of support options out there who can help. We’ve listed them all, including how to contact them.

Last year we delivered community reporter training workshops with women who’ve experienced the negative impact of gambling. This is what happened when a group of women with lived experience of gambling harm worked collectively to drive change.

A powerful community-led event shed light on the hidden impact of gambling, from financial struggles to mental health crises. With fresh initiatives and a call for stronger regulation, local voices are demanding action.

“Exploring Scotland’s outdoors allows you to connect with nature in a way you can’t truly understand until you experience it yourself. Every time I’m in the mountains, I feel a deep sense of peace, leaving behind stress and worries.” –Shahid Chounhary

Community, climate and creativity come together in Govanhill’s new sustainability focused event at The Hidden Gardens. Local groups united over shared meals and goals to tackle climate risks in Glasgow’s first Net Zero Neighbourhood.

Glasgow Film Theatre agreed to remove Coca-Cola from its bar following pressure from Unite Hospitality, as part of the wider BDS movement. While campaigners welcome the decision, their open letter pushes for broader boycott commitments, including the removal of Barclays adverts and the endorsement of PACBI.

Glasgow City Council’s 2025 budget includes a £6.5 million boost for cleansing services. The funding will support city-wide improvements, including more staff at Polmadie Recycling Centre and maintenance to Victoria and Pollok Park.

Introducing the Visitor Levy…What is it? Why is it important? And what does it have to do with you? Find out how you can add your voice to the conversation and have your say on local tax reform.

Plant Grow Share delivers donated produce by bike to food banks and community groups, tackling food insecurity and reducing waste across Glasgow's Southside. Now they are reaping the rewards of their efforts and tenacity.

We asked the newsroom team – veterans of Glasgow’s big, beautiful, and notoriously hard-to-heat tenement flats – for their top tips on staying warm in winter. We also reached out to our friends at South Seeds, who offer expert energy advice from their hub on Victoria Road.

In July 2024, people from the Roma community living in Govanhill were surveyed on their experiences with housing conditions and the local environment. The study found that basic human rights are not being supported when it comes to housing with the majority of those surveyed saying the conditions of their homes were poor.

Lottie Brand, from the South East Integration Network (SEIN) picks out a few volunteering opportunities to highlight the range of opportunities available at your organisations at your doorstep from Women on Wheels to Music Broth.

Unlike many European countries, Scotland lacks mandatory owners’ associations, leaving tenants and flat owners to navigate the complexities of retrofitting on their own. With legislative changes years away, the question remains, how can communities take action now to green-proof their homes for the future?

Rohese Devereux Taylor and Kate Mackay explore the journey of co-founding the Glasgow Homebirth Support Group, the benefits of birthing at home, and the invaluable resources and networks available to parents in Glasgow, from sling libraries to breastfeeding support.

Once labelled the ‘worst for fly-tipping in Glasgow’, before the end of last year you would have found Kingarth Lane at Bowman Street full of sofas, mattresses, carpets, fridges and bags of household rubbish. Then in November 2023 the Lane Community group was successful in getting gates erected with the hope that they would bring an end to the endemic fly tipping issue.