A public health report going to councillors this Monday sets out local gambling risks and proposes prevention, support and data measures for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. A new local plan sets out ways to reduce gambling related harm across BCP. A public health report prepared for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council says gambling harm is an increasingly significant issue for individuals, families, workplaces and wider communities across the conurbation. The council’s public health and communities team has completed a health needs assessment, which found higher levels of risk
A new local plan sets out ways to reduce gambling related harm across BCP.
A public health report prepared for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council says gambling harm is an increasingly significant issue for individuals, families, workplaces and wider communities across the conurbation.
The council’s public health and communities team has completed a health needs assessment, which found higher levels of risk in deprived communities and coastal urban areas where gambling opportunities are more prevalent.
The report says harms linked to gambling include “poor mental health, financial difficulties, relationship breakdown” and housing instability, and says only a small proportion of people affected are currently getting support or treatment.
It estimates that between 9,500 and 49,400 residents aged 16 and over in BCP may be at elevated or severe risk of gambling related harm.
Poole Town, Bournemouth Central and Boscombe West have the highest concentrations of gambling premises, with 69 per cent of premises located within the most deprived neighbourhoods.
The proposed strategy focuses on prevention, earlier identification and support, including education, family support, staff training, improved data collection and a multi agency partnership funded through the statutory gambling levy.
The report is due to be discussed by councillors at a health and wellbeing board meeting this Monday.
