Views Sought Over Strategy To Reduce Gambling Harm

12 February 2026
ShareSave


Andrew DawkinsWest Midlands


People in a city are being prompted to share their experiences of and what problems it can cause as a council wants to protect vulnerable homeowners.


Two consultations have been started by City of Wolverhampton Council, one for grownups and the other for kids and young people.


Evidence recommended 1.2% of the city's population satisfied the requirements to be described as issue bettors, more than double the national average, a representative stated.


The experiences people share will go into reducing the damage from the problem, they included.


Harms might consist of monetary hardship, relationship breakdown and mental health issues, the spokesperson stated.


From 2019-22, 70 Wolverhampton residents looked for help from the charity Aquarius, which supports people impacted by gaming.


But the council representative stated they estimated 8,570 individuals could have benefited from the group's support.


Signs that somebody may have an issue with betting consist of sensations of anxiety or stress around their gambling routine, wagering more than they can afford to lose, and gaming ever bigger quantities of money to feel the same "high" as in the past.


Councillor Obaida Ahmed said the authority desired their method to be formed by real experiences and "grounded in what our neighborhoods inform us they need".


"Your voice matters - whether you have been personally impacted, understand someone who has, or simply want to contribute to a more secure, healthier city," she included, with a due date for remarks by 20 March.


Research from the yearly nationwide Young People and Gambling Survey 2025 revealed a significant rise in gambling involvement amongst 11 to 17 years of age, with 30% reporting that they had actually spent their own cash on gaming in the past year, up from 27% in 2024.


Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.