New research has prompted renewed action to tackle gambling-related harm across the city. Health leaders say earlier support and stronger partnerships are key to preventing long-term impacts.
A study commissioned by Liverpool City Council and conducted by Liverpool John Moores University has uncovered a concerning prevalence of gambling-related issues within the city. The findings indicate that nearly 12% of people who gamble in Liverpool are experiencing gambling-related harm, a figure that is almost double the national average for England.
Additionally, the research shows that nearly 30% of adults in the city have participated in gambling activities within the last 12 months. Perhaps most alarmingly, the study highlights that approximately 25,000 adults in Liverpool have been impacted by gambling harm within their own households during childhood. The council emphasizes that these issues extend beyond individuals, affecting families and communities across multiple generations.
In response to these findings, Liverpool held a city-wide workshop to address the crisis, bringing together key organizations, including the NHS Northern Gambling Service, the Big Life Foundation, and the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities. This event served as part of a broader action plan focused on prevention, early intervention, and improving access to support services. Officials involved in the study noted that gambling-related harm often remains hidden until it reaches a critical state. A representative from the Big Life Foundation shared their lived experience during the workshop, highlighting the profound impact gambling has had on their wellbeing and emphasizing the urgent need for recovery support free from stigma or judgment.
Furthermore, Liverpool City Council has joined the Coalition to End Gambling Ads. This move supports broader calls to minimize the impact of gambling advertising, particularly on vulnerable population groups. By prioritizing early support and advocacy, the city aims to reduce the long-term, multi-generational damage caused by gambling-related issues and ensure residents can access the help they need sooner.
