People in deprived areas of Dudley face 'increased risk of harm from gambling'
Summary
A BBC investigation found that the two Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) in Dudley are located in areas among the 20% most deprived in Britain. GambleAware expressed concern, citing research showing individuals in deprived areas are twice as likely to experience gambling harms, and that half of those using gaming machines experience 'problem gambling'. Dudley Council licenses these AGCs, while the gambling industry maintains that AGCs operate under strict regulations and invest in regeneration. The research indicates a wider trend, with 48% of AGCs across England, Scotland, and Wales located in the most deprived areas, and Dudley being one of only 12 authorities where all AGCs are in highly deprived areas.
(Source:Express & Star)