Gambling related harm, House of Commons, 18 March 2019

Key messages

• Awareness of harmful gambling has increased in recent years due to widespread public concern and the high-profile campaign against high stakes fixed odd betting terminals (FOBTs), the clustering of betting shops on high streets and a growing concern regarding the volume of gambling advertising on television.
• The LGA welcomes steps taken by parliamentarians and the Government to ensure that the reduction of FOBT stakes to £2 takes effect from April 2019. There is still more than needs to be done to tackle gambling related harm.
• We played a prominent role in the successful campaign to reduce FOBT stakes to £2 and to support councils we have published guidance on taking a whole council approach to tackling gambling related harm.
• Although councils are not responsible for treating gambling addictions, they may encounter gambling addiction when providing a range of services to their residents. These could include children’s services, financial inclusion, housing and treatment services and can play a key role in signposting to help that is available.
• The LGA has called for the Government to introduce a mandatory levy on the gambling industry to fund research, education and treatment. This view is supported by other organisations, including GambleAware, the charity responsible for minimising gambling-related harm.

Download the full briefing

Gambling related harm, House of Commons, 18 March 2019