Gambling harm is becoming a growing public health issue across the country. Here in Islington, the council is taking practical steps to protect residents from addiction, debt and the mental health pressures linked to gambling. The focus is simple: put people first, prioritise health, and support communities most at risk. 

Putting residents’ health first

Gambling addiction can affect anyone. It’s often linked to anxiety, depression, money worries and family breakdown. In Islington – as in many parts of London – betting shops and adult gaming centres are more common in areas facing higher levels of deprivation. This means the people already under the most pressure are often the ones most exposed to gambling harm. 

Islington Council is working to change this. The council believes gambling should be treated as seriously as any other health risk. But under the current Gambling Act 2005, councils must approve most gambling premises unless they meet very narrow criteria – even when local people raise strong concerns. 

To address this, Islington Council has joined a coalition of councils representing nearly 12 million people, calling for modern, stronger laws. The coalition is pushing for a fair fund to pay for treatment, stronger rules on gambling adverts, and the power to refuse new gambling venues when they could harm local people. 

Support available now for residents

While national reform is urgently needed, Islington Council is also making sure residents can get help today. 

Through a partnership with Betknowmore’s GOALS (Gambling Outreach and Living Support) programme, free support is available every Thursday at the community hub at 222 Upper Street.  

Since January 2025, the programme has delivered: 

• 1,474 brief interventions with residents affected by gambling harm
• 63 support hub sessions offering advice, referrals and one‑to‑one help
• 1,814 total engagements since the hub opened in September 2024 

Residents tell us the difference this makes: 

“I just want to say a huge thank you… they have been very helpful to me and my family.”

“They really understand what we are going through… Knowing I wasn’t alone really helped.”

Leading the way across London

Islington Council is also helping shape London‑wide action on gambling harm. Baroness Cllr Dr Hyde, Executive Member for Health and Social Care, chairs the London Gambling Harms Action Group (LGHAG) – a partnership of 17 London boroughs. 

Together, the group is working to strengthen prevention and early intervention, improve access to support services and share evidence and good practice. 

This joined‑up approach means Islington Council is not acting alone – it is helping lead a citywide effort to reduce gambling harm. 

Standing up for healthier high streets

Islington Council continues to challenge the spread of harmful gambling venues. The council is calling for the power to consider local debt levels, community wellbeing, and the proximity to schools and vulnerable groups when making licensing decisions. 

Residents deserve high streets that support local businesses and help communities thrive – not ones dominated by venues that can cause harm. 

Support is available

If you’re worried about your own gambling or someone else’s, free and confidential help is available. 

The Gambling Support Hub takes place every Thursday at 222 Upper Street. Betknowmore advisors are on hand to listen, offer guidance and connect you to specialist services. 

Find out more at Betknowmore UK – Get Gambling Support