The toll of gambling-related harm reverberates through communities, leaving devastation in its wake. As families struggle, public services strain, and individuals face spiraling debt and shattered relationships, the urgency to address this issue cannot be overstated. In a recent debate at the House of Lords, the gravity of the situation was laid bare, with a call to action resonating across party lines.
The House of Lords Select Committee on the Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry sounded the alarm back in 2019 with its report titled ‘Gambling Harm – Time for Action.’ This comprehensive document outlined over 50 recommendations aimed at reforming the industry and enhancing safety measures. Now, as the anticipation mounts for the forthcoming White Paper on the Gambling Act, stakeholders are eager to see tangible steps taken to address the concerns raised in the report.
At the heart of the debate lies the role of local councils in mitigating gambling harm. While councils bear a statutory duty to regulate gambling premises, concerns have been raised about the limitations of their powers. Currently, councils lack the authority to prevent the opening of new gambling establishments, even in cases where it may be detrimental to the community. This lack of flexibility has led to the clustering of gambling venues in vulnerable areas, exacerbating the harm experienced by residents.
To address this issue, calls have been made for the White Paper to grant councils more discretion in determining the number and location of gambling premises within their jurisdiction. By empowering councils to reject licenses in areas deemed to have a negative cumulative impact, communities can reclaim control over their local environment and design spaces that prioritize residents’ well-being.
Furthermore, there is a pressing need for stronger regulations on the gambling industry as a whole. The proliferation of online gambling platforms has raised concerns about the adequacy of existing safeguards to protect consumers. Without robust regulations in place, vulnerable individuals are left exposed to the dangers of excessive gambling without adequate intervention.
One proposed solution is the introduction of a mandatory levy on gambling firms to fund expanded treatment and support services. By adopting a “polluter pays” approach, those entities responsible for the greatest harm would contribute proportionally to addressing the consequences of their actions. While voluntary contributions from some operators are a step in the right direction, a statutory levy would ensure sustainable funding for essential services.
Additionally, the issue of gambling license fees has come under scrutiny. With fees capped at a national level since 2007, many councils find themselves struggling to cover the costs of administering licenses. Granting councils the flexibility to set fees in line with local expenses would ensure that resources are allocated where they are most needed, safeguarding the integrity of licensing processes.
As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: the status quo is no longer tenable. With lives and livelihoods at stake, decisive action is needed to confront the scourge of gambling harm head-on. Only through coordinated efforts at the local and national levels can we hope to stem the tide of devastation wrought by this insidious industry.
