People living in the most deprived areas of Dudley are facing a heightened risk of gambling-related harm, according to findings from the BBC’s Shared Data Unit. The research reveals that the borough’s two licensed Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) are situated in locations categorized among the 20 percent most deprived in mainland Britain. This trend has raised alarm among campaigners, particularly the charity GambleAware, which advocates for responsible gambling practices.
GambleAware’s transition CEO, Anna Hargrave, expressed concern about the clustering of gambling venues in economically disadvantaged areas. She stated, “Our research has shown those in the most deprived areas are two times more likely to experience gambling harms.” Hargrave highlighted that while all forms of gambling carry inherent risks, gaming machines, such as slot machines, are particularly problematic. Their research indicates that one in two individuals who used gaming machines in the past year reported experiencing issues related to problem gambling.
Concerns Over AGC Locations
In Dudley, the two AGCs—Quicksilver on High Street in Brierley Hill and Shipleys Mirage Centre on Hagley Street in Halesowen—are open 24 hours a day and feature gaming machines that can payout significant amounts. According to the BBC study, Dudley is among only 12 authorities where 100 percent of AGCs are located in high deprivation areas. Notably, Bolton leads this category with six AGCs.
The gaming industry maintains that AGCs operate under stringent regulatory standards. Allastar Gair, communications director at the trade association BACTA, emphasized that a new AGC cannot begin operations without undergoing a comprehensive licensing process that involves local council oversight and a detailed risk assessment. He remarked, “Operators do not target deprived areas; they take on long-term empty units and invest in high streets that need regeneration.”
Wider Implications and Industry Statistics
Statistics from the Gambling Commission reveal that across England, Scotland, and Wales, nearly 48 percent of AGCs are found in the two most deprived areas. Specifically, there are 435 AGCs situated in the first most deprived areas and 229 in the second most deprived category. In addition to the two AGCs, Dudley is home to 26 betting shops, six bingo halls, and one casino, further illustrating the prevalence of gambling venues in the region.
GambleAware’s findings underscore the urgent need for awareness and intervention in communities facing economic hardship. As the debate over gambling regulation continues, the implications for public health and community welfare remain significant, particularly in areas where resources are already stretched thin.
