Liverpool Launches New Initiative to Combat Gambling-Related Harm

UK.- March 28, 2025 www.zonadeazar.com Liverpool City Council and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) have partnered to launch a broad campaign aimed at tackling gambling-related harm, based on a study that sheds light on the challenges faced by the city’s residents.

Key points:

  • A recent study revealed that 30% of adults in Liverpool engage in gambling annually, with 12% at risk of harm – a figure that is twice the national average.

  • Liverpool City Council and LJMU are spearheading a multi-sector initiative to address gambling-related issues through research and policy development.

  • A recent workshop brought together key stakeholders to create strategies, with further plans to implement long-term solutions.

Liverpool is taking a significant step in addressing gambling-related harm, following new research that underscores the extent of the issue in the city.

The study, commissioned by Liverpool City Council in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), found that nearly 30% of adults in Liverpool gamble on an annual basis, with approximately 12% at risk of harm – nearly double the national average in England.

The research, which utilized a variety of data sources – including the Merseyside Violence and Community Safety (MerVCom) survey – identified key risk factors and vulnerable populations affected by gambling.

Additionally, the study revealed that around 25,000 adults in Liverpool had experienced gambling-related harm within their households during childhood.

Acknowledging the financial, mental health, and social repercussions of problem gambling, Liverpool City Council and LJMU have launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.

This initiative brings together essential stakeholders, such as healthcare professionals, law enforcement, charities, and organizations with lived experience, to develop an evidence-based action plan.

Good to know:

A major workshop recently took place as part of this initiative. Led by Liverpool Public Health and hosted by LJMU, the event was attended by representatives from the NHS, Merseyside Police, Gambling with Lives, and Beacon.

In response to the development, Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Health, and Wellbeing, said: “The research, carried out in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, is a critical step in identifying those most at risk and ensuring they get the proper support. We are committed to continuing this work with our partners, proactively preventing harm and offering help where it’s most needed.”

Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health, commented: “This initiative demonstrates Liverpool’s commitment to protecting residents from the negative impacts of gambling, promoting a healthier and more resilient community. Stakeholders from different sectors will work together to refine strategies, implement policies, and ensure sustainable interventions that effectively address gambling-related harm.”

“By combining research, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration, the city is taking proactive steps to reduce the impact of gambling-related harms and enhance public well-being.”

Edited by: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com

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