Walsall residents are being encouraged to seek support if gambling is affecting their lives or the lives of those around them, particularly during the challenging post-Christmas period.
The start of a new year can bring increased financial pressure and emotional strain, which may worsen gambling-related harms. Local estimates suggest that more than 13,000 adults in Walsall experience direct harm from gambling, with the wider impact on families, friends and loved ones potentially affecting up to six times that number.
National data highlights the scale of the issue. According to the Gambling Commission, 77% of people experiencing gambling harm say that incentives such as free offers and bonuses encourage them to gamble more than intended. Meanwhile, 69% of young people report having seen or heard gambling advertisements, demonstrating the broader influence of marketing and promotion.
To support residents, Walsall Council has developed a dedicated gambling harms directory, offering practical steps to help individuals reduce or stop gambling and access further support. These include tools such as TalkBanStop to block gambling activity, educational resources like Chapter ONE, and specialist treatment services including the West Midlands NHS Gambling Support Clinic and Aquarius.
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council, said:
“ Gambling harms often go unseen, affecting not just individuals but families and friends too. If gambling is causing worry about money, relationships or work, you’re not alone. It is not your fault. There is help available and recovery is possible. There are free, anonymous support tools which are here to help you, as well as a range of services if you need other support. “
The council has also shared an example reflecting common experiences of those affected by gambling harms:
“I’ve lost my friends as I keep cancelling on them, I haven’t got any money to do things. I’m not present with my family. My employer is worried about me, they have scheduled a meeting with me next week, I haven’t told anyone yet. My mental health has never been worse. I can’t sleep. I’m always on my phone. but I keep going back.”
Residents can access support and guidance through the following resources:
Gambling Harms directory for residents:
https://go.walsall.gov.uk
Gambling Harms directory for professionals:
https://go.walsall.gov.uk
Specialist treatment services:
https://www.nhs.uk
Additional help is also available for those experiencing financial or mental health difficulties. The Walsall Wellbeing Directory provides information on money advice and cost of living support:
https://go.walsall.gov.uk
If urgent mental health support is needed, residents can call NHS 111 and select option 2, or contact Samaritans on 116 123.
Further advice is also available through Citizens Advice and NHS self-help resources.