Research supports Liverpool gambling reduction strategy

The Public Health Institute (PHI) at LJMU is supporting local partners with shaping a new gambling strategy for the city after conducting a study which aimed to identify levels of gambling related harm across Liverpool.

Around 30% of adults across Liverpool have gambled in the past 12 months. Of those who have gambled in the past year, almost 12% were currently experiencing gambling related harm, and concerningly this is approximately double the national estimates for England.

Males, younger age groups, those with no qualifications, and neurodivergent populations are most at risk. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are also a significant factor; individuals with four or more ACEs being four times more like to experience gambling related harm. Critically the study showed that people who grew up in a household with a family member who experienced gambling related harm were three times more likely to also experience it themselves as an adult.

Individuals experiencing gambling related harm were also more likely to have used drugs, be daily smokers/vapers, have low mental wellbeing, been a victim of violence, and been involved in the criminal justice system, demonstrating the link between gambling and other established public health issues.

Nadia Butler, a Research Fellow in PHI, said:

This study is one of the first nationally to provide representative data for a local population, on the extent and nature of gambling related harm. Whilst gambling related harm is being increasingly recognised as a public health issue globally and nationally, there are still gaps in knowledge and understanding of the extent of the issue, which groups are most affected, and the impacts for individuals, families, and communities.

Nadia’s report was presented to Liverpool’s first multi-agency workshop on tackling gambling related harms, co-hosted by the university and Liverpool City Council who commissioned the study.

It follows the establishment of a multi-agency Liverpool Gambling Related Harms Steering Group in 2023 to implement an evidenced-based approach to preventing gambling related harms across the city.

Dr Butler, who provides academic evidence to the group, added: “The findings from the study are already starting to inform the development of an action plan to tackle gambling related harm and will hopefully lead to better support and outcomes for individuals, families, and communities across Liverpool.”

Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Health, and Wellbeing, said:  “This initiative, in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University, reflects Liverpool’s commitment to protecting residents from the effects of gambling and fostering a healthier, more resilient community. The partnership with LJMU strengthens our ability to combine research, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration, ensuring that we take proactive steps towards mitigating gambling-related harms and promoting public well-being.”