Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Public Health.

This report has been prepared at the request of the Adults, Social Care and Health Scrutiny Committee.  It outlines the legal context, the issue of gambling related harm and the national, regional and local perspective, before summarising the actions we are taking in Stockport to address this issue.  

The Scrutiny Committee is recommended to comment on and note the report.

Officer contact: Jennifer Connolly on 0161 474 2442 or email: jennifer.connolly@stockport.gov.uk

The Director of Public Health submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) which had been prepared at the request of the Adult Social Care & Health Scrutiny Committee. The report outlined the legal context, the issue of gambling related harm and the national, regional and local perspective, and summarised the actions the council were taking in Stockport to address this issue. 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care (Councillor Keith Holloway) attended the meeting to respond to questions from the Scrutiny Committee.

The following comments were made/issues raised:-

·         Recognised the dangers associated with gambling and welcomed the progress to raise gambling related harm awareness.

·         That the ease of gambling through modern technology had resulted in an increased risk.

·         Sought clarification in relation to whether the council had control over gambling advertisements within the borough.

·         In response it was stated that the council had very limited control in relation to local advertisers, however the team would follow up the Committee’s concerns with the Town Centre Team.

·         Requested additional information as to the parameters of a gambling premise.

·         It was suggested that the team explore early help prevention opportunities for those who present with signs of problem gambling.  

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.