Sian Griffiths (CBE), the newly appointed Chair of Trustees at GambleAware, has urged the Labour Government to develop a strong national strategy to protect the people of Britain from the harms associated with gambling. 

Recognized for her extensive experience in public health and policy, Griffiths previously served as the Faculty President of Public Health England.  

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Comprehensive National Strategy Funded by Statutory Levy on Gambling Industry 

The liberalisation of gambling in 2005 and the rise of mobile technology have contributed to the proliferation of gambling products, making it easier for people to gamble without detection.   

Gambling harms are particularly severe among young people, ethnic minorities, and women, with data suggesting that the number of women gambling online has more than doubled in recent years. 

Health leaders, including those from the NHS, advocate for proactive measures to address the root causes of gambling harm rather than merely treating its consequences. 

Professor Sian Griffiths, chair of trustees at GambleAware, emphasised the need for a comprehensive national strategy focused on public health, including prevention, early intervention, and treatment funded by a statutory levy on the gambling industry.

She calls for immediate action from the incoming Labour government to regulate gambling advertising and marketing, protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring a healthier future for communities. 

Calls for Government to Make Significant Changes to Gambling Act of 2005 

In her recent article published by PoliticsHome, Griffiths pointed to the ongoing gambling scandal impacting the General Election as a clear indication of how gambling has become an accepted part of everyday life in the UK. 

Griffiths argues that it is essential for the Labour government to make significant changes to the Gambling Act of 2005, which was introduced during their previous time in office with the aim of liberalizing gambling in the UK.  

Griffiths believes that this act has been further complicated by subsequent governments, and now, a more effective, comprehensive national strategy is necessary to address and reduce gambling-related harm, which represents a significant burden on society.

GambleAware provides resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling issues and promotes the need for stronger advertising regulations and health warnings to mitigate risks, especially for young people.