In Dudley, residents in deprived areas are facing an increased risk of gambling-related harm, according to a leading charity. Research conducted by the BBC’s Shared Data Unit indicates that the borough’s two licensed Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) are situated in locations ranked among the 20 percent most deprived areas in mainland Britain. This finding has raised significant concerns from gambling support charity GambleAware.
The AGCs in question, Quicksilver on High Street, Brierley Hill, and Shipleys Mirage Centre on Hagley Street, Halesowen, operate 24 hours a day and feature gaming machines that can payout substantial sums. Anna Hargrave, the transition CEO of GambleAware, emphasized the risks associated with such establishments. “Our research has shown that those in the most deprived areas are two times more likely to experience gambling harms,” she stated.
Concerns Over Gaming Machines
The charity’s worries extend beyond the mere presence of AGCs. Hargrave noted that gaming machines, particularly slot machines, are linked to a high level of gambling-related issues. “One in two people using gaming machines in the past year have experienced ‘problem gambling’,” she explained. The prevalence of these machines in areas of economic hardship poses a serious challenge for community welfare.
According to the BBC research, Dudley is among only 12 authorities where all AGCs are located in high-deprivation areas. In comparison, Bolton has the highest number in the 100 percent category with six AGCs. Across England, Scotland, and Wales, nearly 48 percent of AGCs are found in the two most deprived regions, with 435 located in the most deprived areas and 229 in the second most deprived.
Industry Response
The gambling industry, represented by the trade association BACTA, defends the operation of AGCs, noting they function under one of the strictest regulatory frameworks for low-stakes gambling globally. Allastar Gair, communications director for BACTA, stated, “A new AGC does not open without a full licensing process, council oversight, and a detailed risk assessment.” He added that operators do not specifically target deprived areas but rather invest in long-empty units to help regenerate local high streets.
Despite the industry’s assurances regarding regulation and oversight, the clustering of gambling venues in economically challenged communities remains a significant concern for public health advocates. The presence of gaming facilities in such locales could exacerbate existing social issues and lead to increased gambling-related harm among vulnerable populations.
In Dudley, the landscape of gambling extends beyond AGCs. Official records from the Gambling Commission reveal that the borough is home to two AGCs, 26 betting shops, six bingo halls, and one casino, highlighting the extensive nature of gambling opportunities available to residents.
As the debate continues, the risks associated with gambling in deprived areas will likely remain a focal point for community leaders and health advocates alike. The need for a balanced approach that considers both economic development and public health is crucial to ensure the well-being of those living in these vulnerable communities.
