The City of Wolverhampton Council has launched a public consultation to help shape its new Gambling Harm Reduction Strategy, aimed at protecting residents from the growing risks associated with gambling‑related harm.
The strategy seeks to address the increasing impact of online betting, gaming‑style platforms and targeted advertising that can affect people of all ages, but particularly those most vulnerable. These harms can include financial hardship, relationship breakdown, mental health issues and wider community impact.
Residents, professionals, community groups and young people are invited to share their experiences and views to help inform priorities for prevention, early intervention and support across the city. Two consultations have been created – one for adults and one for children and young people – to ensure that a wide range of voices shape the final strategy.
Evidence suggests 5.3% of the population of Wolverhampton are at elevated risk of gambling-related harm, and 1.2% meet the criteria for problem gambling – more than double the national average. Despite this, treatment uptake remains extremely low: between 2019 and 2022, only 70 residents accessed support from regional treatment provider Aquarius, compared to an estimated 8,570 people who could have benefitted from support.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "Gambling harm is a real and growing issue that affects individuals, families and communities across Wolverhampton.
“With the rise in online gambling and the highly targeted nature of digital advertising, it has never been more important that we take proactive, evidence‑led action to protect our residents. We want this strategy to be shaped by real experiences and grounded in what our communities tell us they need.
“Your voice matters – whether you have been personally affected, know someone who has, or simply want to contribute to a safer, healthier city – so please take a few moments to have your say and help us build a comprehensive approach to reducing gambling‑related harm.” For adults, visit https://tinyurl.com/3paf33sb, for children, visit https://tinyurl.com/yr455j8e.
The deadline for comments is 20 March, 2026.
