Proposed tightening of gambling regulations in West Sussex

West Sussex Councils Propose Stricter Gambling Regulations

Adur and Worthing councils have proposed new measures to tighten gambling regulations, including the introduction of Challenge 25 at gambling establishments and a ban on credit facilities in casinos and bingo halls.

The proposed policies were approved by the councils’ licensing committees on November 11 and November 25, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. The changes align with updated guidelines from the Gambling Commission announced in May and are expected to take effect by February 2025.

Among the new measures, councils will be allowed to conduct covert test purchases to ensure under-18s are not accessing adult gambling premises. While ATMs will still be permitted in such venues, councils will have the authority to decide their placement.

Charity GamCare commended the councils for exceeding the mandatory requirements of the Gambling Act 2005 but encouraged further steps. They suggested training frontline staff and primary care workers to identify gambling harm and establish referral pathways to the National Gambling Helpline or local treatment services.

Adur District Council’s policy specifically includes staff training in brief intervention techniques for customers showing signs of excessive gambling or addiction.

According to a recent Public Health England report, 0.5% of the population are problem gamblers, with 3.8% at risk of developing gambling-related issues.

The policies await final approval during full council meetings on December 17 (Worthing) and December 19 (Adur).