By Gabriel Princewill-
Channel 4 has been asked by The Eye Of Media.Com to institute a rehabilitative programme for former soccer star, Paul Gascoigne, and refrain from profiting financially from him, except where there is an observable connection with the objective of improving his serious mental health issues., and beating his alcoholic demons.
Gascoigne, a public figure with a history of substance abuse and personal struggles is widely perceived to have become a focal point for the channel’s programming after he was interviewed by the broadcaster whilst clearly shaking.
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The broadcaster received numerous complaints about their decision to feature the former icon in such a bad state in which his hands were shaking during last week’s England match. Critics say the ill advised judgement evidences the broadcaster’s implicit negligence to other alcoholics who may have been watching the programme at the time.
Objectors of the broadcaster’s decision to feature the former England Ace, believe it amounts to them normalising the pitiful condition of his mental health.
Others say that Channel 4’s continued association with Gascoigne perpetuates his public persona as a troubled individual, despite generally being regarded as a star, courtesy of his historic time as an England player.
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The angry complaints to the broadcaster did not result in a public apology, but a worrying silence.
Gascoigne has long been a national treasure in the sporting world, but his battle with alcoholism and its attendant woes has been one of the major detractions from the man of old.
Channel 4’s decision to air the interview has been deemed reckless and disrespectful to the public by many professionals and members of the public who insist that is essential for broadcasters to consider the potential impact of their programming on viewers, particularly those who may be struggling with addiction. By showcasing a visibly intoxicated individual without offering context or resources for help.
Over 90% of football fans asked about their views expressed utter disappointment, and expressed an expectation of better judgement from the broadcaster.
Arsenal fan Dave Andrews said: ” it is definitely not good optics to have a broadcaster gaining commercially from Paul Gascoigne, if his more important needs are not well attended to. The guy was a star who was keeping fit regularly to play for England.
‘Helping him confront his drink problem is more important than superficial appearances on television, attempting to preserve his celebrity status as a national idol, when he is actually a very troubled man. He needs a lot of help away from the screens, unless he wants his recovery screened. It was a sad sight to him shaking like that”
Former social worker, Hortensia Daniels said Rehabilitation is a vital aspect of helping individuals overcome personal challenges and regain control of their lives. For someone like Paul Gascoigne, who has battled addiction and faced numerous personal obstacles, effective rehabilitation is crucial. It provides the necessary tools, support, and guidance to address underlying issues, promote personal growth, and facilitate a meaningful reintegration into society.
”Channel 4 risks perpetuating harmful stereotypes and downplaying the gravity of alcoholism.
Tokenistic Rehabilitation /.Comprehensive Rehabilitation
Advocates of a strong regime that promises the likelihood of a transformative outcome have raised concerns that Gascoigne needs a proper rehabilitation programme, and that any efforts made on behalf of Paul Gascoigne in this regard in the past may have been tokenistic, lacking depth and long-term effectiveness.
Gascoigne has been in rehab seven times, and has spoken about how he died in rehab when detoxing from alcohol and how doctors had to resuscitate him.
Questions remain whether the level of the rehabilitation programmes was high enough and involved sufficient professional expertise to address his demons.
There are no public details of the process undertaken in rehabilitating the former soccer legend, without which adequate scrutiny can be conducted.
Channel 4 has been urged to strive to institute a higher level of rehabilitation that genuinely addresses Gascoigne’s needs and promotes sustainable change in his condition.
Researcher and teacher, John Dumbarah said: ”Genuine rehabilitation goes beyond mere publicity stunts or surface-level interventions. It requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This includes access to experienced professionals, personalized treatment plans, ongoing support systems, and a commitment to long-term care’
”It requires effective collaboration of a level that ensures a holistic approach and provides a solid foundation of support for Gascoigne beyond the reach of the television screen.
” Genuine rehabilitation also requires ongoing support and aftercare. There is no way of assessing how efficient the rehabilitation Gascoigne was given was, but professional experience suggests there are always a combination of approaches that can work in each case.
”Channel 4 must commit to providing Gascoigne with the necessary resources, counselling, and assistance to maintain his progress beyond the a superficial level.
Debilitating
Alcoholism is considered a serious and often debilitating disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Normalizing alcoholism, whether intentionally or unintentionally, can have detrimental effects on those struggling with addiction.”
The broadcaster has been advised to work closely with reputable rehabilitation experts, psychologists, and addiction specialists to develop a tailored program for Gascoigne. This collaboration will ensure that the rehabilitation process is evidence-based, comprehensive, and addresses Gascoigne’s specific needs.
Neil Atkinson, 28, a Tottenham fan and counsellor from Epping said : ”when a prominent figure like Gascoigne is interviewed while visibly intoxicated, it sends a message that this behaviour is acceptable or even celebrated. This not only undermines the seriousness of the condition but can also trigger or exacerbate alcohol-related issues for vulnerable individuals watching the program.
”In light of the recent uproar surrounding Channel 4’s involvement with Paul Gascoigne and concerns of exploitation, it is advisable for the broadcaster to exercise caution and refrain from any further professional engagements with Gazza that solely serve their own benefits.
”Instead, Channel 4 should prioritize his rehabilitation, ensuring that any collaborations or programming involving him are centered on his journey towards recovery.
”Continuing to engage Gazza in professional capacities solely for the benefit of the broadcaster could reinforce accusations of exploitation and damage Channel 4’s reputation. The public’s perception of Gascoigne being exploited for entertainment purposes could overshadow any positive intentions or messages conveyed by the broadcaster”
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