Spotlight on responsible gambling in Leeds

Leeds residents who are affected by problem gambling are being encouraged to speak openly about the issue in a bid to reduce the stigma associated with gambling addiction.

As part of the national Responsible Gambling Week (12 to 18 October) Leeds City Council has joined forces with the gambling industry to launch a high profile campaign across the city.

This is the first time a major city has embarked on such a high profile campaign to help citizens who are suffering problems from gambling. The council’s campaign is being launched to coincide with the gambling industry’s Responsible Gambling Week, which is supported by all five gambling industry trade bodies.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of gambling related harm, mitigate the risk of problem gambling and to provide advice on how to get help and support.

Interview opportunity

When: Monday 16 October, 12:00noon to 1:00pm

Where: Leeds Civic Hall LS1 1UR

Councillor Debra Coupar (Executive Member for Communities and Environment) and James Rogers (Director of Communities and Environment) will be available for interviews – please contact the press office to arrange a slot.

According to research undertaken on behalf of the council by Leeds Beckett University in 2016 there are approximate 10,000 people in Leeds who have been identified as problem gamblers and a further 30,000 people who may be at risk of harm from gambling.

Whilst problem gambling can affect anyone at any time, certain groups are more vulnerable to gambling related harm, including;

• Young people (including students)
• Those living in areas of greatest deprivation
• Adults with mental health issues

Councillor Debra Coupar, executive member for communities said:

“What might start as a bit of fun and excitement can soon spiral out of control and lead to serious financial problems, as well as having a massive impact on people’s health, wellbeing and relationships.

“Gambling is often a hidden addiction, shrouded in social embarrassment, so we really want to encourage people to start talking about it and put an end to the stigma and help them get the help and support they need rather than suffering in silence.”

The Leeds ‘Beat the Odds’ campaign will be seen around the city and via social media.

People will be able to access information and advice on responsible gambling from information points at location across the city next week:

• Monday 16 October: St George’s One Stop Centre, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

• Tuesday 17 October: The Compton Centre, 322 Harehills Lane, LS9 7BG

• Wednesday 18 October: Leeds Beckett University, The Gateway at The Leslie Silver Building, Woodhouse Lane.

Help and support is available via the Leeds Money Information Centre website www.talkgamblingleeds.org.uk, the National Gambling Helpline freephone 0808 8020 133, or the Be Gamble Aware website: www.begambleaware.org.

Notes to editors:

The five gambling industry sector trade bodies are:

Association of British Bookmakers (ABB)

British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta)

Bingo Association (BA)

National Casino Forum (NCF)

Remote Gambling Association (RGA)