York City Council Report Highlights Gambling Harm Impact on Residents, Released 16 July 2026

A new report from the City of York Council has shed light on a serious issue affecting many residents: gambling harm. Released on 16 July 2026, the report titled You Bet, They Win: Gambling Harm in York reveals that thousands of people in the city are impacted by gambling-related problems. This research highlights not only the individual struggles but also the wider effects on families, communities, and public services.

Hidden Harms of Gambling

The report identifies significant changes in the gambling market, especially the rise of online gambling, as a primary factor contributing to these issues. This shift has made gambling more accessible than ever, raising concerns about public health. In fact, gambling companies have seen their profits double to £16 billion, which raises questions about the toll this takes on society.

Key findings from the report include:

• During a typical Premier League game, viewers encounter an average of 12.6 gambling advertisements every minute.

• Over 3,000 children in York are living with someone affected by harmful gambling.

• 1 in 12 residents is harmed by another person's gambling.

• Gambling harm is linked to severe issues such as financial crisis, suicide, relationship breakdown, homelessness, and early death.

These statistics show that gambling harm is not just an individual problem; it is a community issue that requires urgent attention.

Public Health Concern

Peter Roderick, the Director of Public Health for York, expressed his concerns about the current situation:

“Ultimately, we want people to be able to enjoy gaming and sport for what they are, and to have money in their pockets, not to be held back by harmful addictive products with devastating consequences.”

Roderick noted that the gambling industry has developed sophisticated tools to extract money from the most vulnerable individuals, leading to financial difficulties and damaged relationships. He emphasized that this harm is preventable through a public health approach, which includes:

• Tackling aggressive marketing strategies.

• Ending industry influence in gambling regulations.

• Enhancing support for those affected.

Addressing Inequalities

The report also highlights the inequalities faced by residents, noting that people in more deprived communities are more likely to suffer from gambling harm. These areas often have a higher concentration of gambling venues, making it easier for residents to fall into harmful gambling habits.

Cllr Lucy Steels-Walshaw, the Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, acknowledged that while some people can gamble without negative consequences, many suffer significantly:

“These findings highlight serious harms for others who are being significantly affected, and that this happens far more frequently than many of us might have realised.”

Coalition to End Gambling Ads

In response to the findings, the City of York Council has joined the Coalition to End Gambling Ads (CEGA), which aims to raise awareness and reduce gambling harm. This coalition includes 15 other local authorities, along with football teams, voluntary organisations, and faith groups, all working together to combat this pressing issue.

Will Prochaska, Director of CEGA, praised York's initiative:

“York is showing real leadership in recognising gambling harm as a public health issue.”

He pointed out that aggressive marketing and widespread advertising are significant contributors to gambling harm, particularly among those already at risk.

Recommendations for Change

The report outlines ten recommendations aimed at reducing gambling harm, including:

• Establishing a city-wide gambling harms network.

• Increasing training for frontline staff.

• Improving early identification of gambling issues through health services.

• Expanding recovery and peer support options.

• Supporting national efforts to restrict gambling advertising.

However, the report stresses that local actions alone are insufficient. It calls for stronger national regulations on advertising, product design, and industry practices, along with sustained investment in prevention and treatment initiatives.