West Sussex Councils Propose Enhanced Gambling Regulations

Two councils in West Sussex have put forward proposals for more stringent gambling regulations. The measures set to be implemented by Adur and Worthing councils encompass the introduction of Challenge 25 at gambling establishments and a prohibition on credit facilities within casinos and bingo halls. These policies received approval during licensing committee meetings held by the two councils, specifically on November 11 and November 25, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. These modifications stem from new guidelines issued by the Gambling Commission in May of the current year, which are slated to become effective by February 2025. Furthermore, the revisions permit the council to conduct ‘covert’ test purchasing operations, aimed at verifying that adult gambling establishments prevent access to individuals under the age of 18. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) will continue to be permitted within gambling premises, though the council retains the authority to specify their placement. After a consultation period regarding the new policy, the charity GamCare expressed approval for the council’s initiative, noting it goes “beyond the mandatory and default conditions” of the Gambling Act 2005. GamCare additionally suggested that the councils could expand their efforts, stating: “This commitment should include training frontline and primary care staff to recognise the signs of gambling harm and develop referral pathways to the National Gambling Helpline or local treatment providers.” The policy from Adur District Council incorporates provisions for training premises staff in “brief intervention when customers show signs of excessive gambling and addiction”. Furthermore, the updated policy references a recent Public Health England report on gambling, which indicates that 0.5% of the population are identified as problem gamblers, and 3.8% are considered to be at risk of developing gambling problems. The new policy requires final endorsement from the full councils of Adur and Worthing, whose next meetings are scheduled for December 19 and December 17, respectively.