A report that sets out recommendations to address gambling-related harms in Walsall will be presented to the Health and Wellbeing Board when it meets on Thursday 12 December.
The report, based on a Rapid Health Needs Assessment on gambling related harms, identifies key issues and provides strategies to improve the health of at-risk gamblers in the borough.
Gambling is widely understood as the act of risking money or items of value in an activity of uncertain outcome in the hopes of winning a prize. It can either take place remotely (online) or non-remotely, such as through a gambling premises, and comes in many forms such as lotteries, casino games and betting. It also features in console games such as loot boxes.
Gambling can affect mental and physical health and wellbeing. It can also have an impact on relationships, finances, housing, employment and education (known as gambling harms).
Eight recommendations have been set out in the assessment. This includes initiating a partnership group to provide more comprehensive prevention and support for gambling harms in Walsall, gathering data to understand current gambling harms and the scale of this, consideration of running a campaign in 2025 and raising awareness of national and local support available to residents.
Members of the Health and Wellbeing Board will discuss the report and the recommendations set out, with a view to approve and endorse them.
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council said, “Gambling comes in many forms and there are different reasons why someone may choose to gamble.
“However, gambling at harmful levels can impact health and wellbeing and have consequences on different aspects of a person’s life, and for those around them. There is a lot we can do in Walsall to reduce gambling harms, and I encourage organisations to work together in supporting individuals experiencing gambling harms or living with a gambling addiction.
“Recovery from gambling is possible. If you or someone you know who has been experiencing gambling harms or an addiction, please reach out for support.”
The full report can be found on the Council’s Committee Management and Information System (CMIS).
Aquarius offers support, advice and information to anyone aged 16 and over, including those indirectly experiencing gambling related harms like friends, family and partners. Call 0300 456 4293 or email gambling@aquarius.org.uk to refer or visit their website for more information
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