Wiltshire Council Launches Gambling Harms Awareness Week
Jacob Mitchell 
Key Takeaways:
- Wiltshire Gambling Harms Awareness Week runs from October 5 to 9.
- The initiative focuses on increasing understanding of available support.
- Activities aim to help recognise gambling's impact on individuals and families.
- Wiltshire Council partners with Ara Recovery for All, Ygam, and South West Gambling Service.
- Programme includes free online training, webinars, and awareness activities.
Wiltshire Gambling Harms Awareness Week has launched, running from October 5 to 9, featuring a series of activities designed to highlight and raise awareness of issues surrounding gambling. The week's programme focuses on increasing the understanding of available support and assisting individuals in recognising when gambling may be impacting an individual or family.
Programme Details and Partnerships
As part of the awareness week, Wiltshire Council is collaborating with Ara Recovery for All, Ygam, and the South West Gambling Service. This partnership delivers a varied programme of free online training sessions, lived experience webinars, and awareness-raising activities. The programme's objective is to empower people to identify the warning signs of gambling harm and equip them with the necessary tools to provide practical advice for those affected, a concern that extends across all regulated online casino markets.
Participants can engage with individuals who have been impacted by gambling harms, alongside receiving training specifically focused on young people. The initiative also provides information regarding NHS treatment services. The council stated that the activities are designed to foster a greater understanding of gambling-related issues within the community, particularly concerning engagement with real money online casinos.
Addressing Gambling Harm and Community Impact
Kate Blackburn, director of public health at Wiltshire Council, emphasised the significance of the awareness week. She stated that it serves as an important opportunity to enhance understanding of gambling-related harms and to highlight the support accessible to individuals, families, and communities who may be affected, a key consideration for online casino licensing requirements. Gambling harm can significantly impact various aspects of a person’s life, including their mental health, relationships, finances, and overall wellbeing.
Blackburn further noted that by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations, the initiative aims to help people recognise the signs of harm earlier and access support when needed. The collaborative effort with partners provides free opportunities for residents, community groups, and professionals to deepen their understanding of gambling harms and learn how to support those affected. The overarching message is that help is available and individuals are not alone in their struggles.
