BARNSLEY Council is running a survey about gambling to improve on the support it offers to residents around the harms.
It will run until November 1 and any information gathered will help develop a borough-wide strategy for the area.
The council admit that they currently know ‘very little’ about the gambling behaviours of people in Barnsley and the impact it has on them.
Coun Jim Andrews, cabinet spokesperson for public health, said: “Gambling is a common part of our society, and it comes in many forms – a football coupon, a lottery ticket or a scratchcard bought over the counter in a corner shop or supermarket, for example.
“Children are even encouraged to participate in gambling whilst playing their online video games, through the purchase of loot boxes or in-game currencies, which introduces them to gambling-related behaviour at an early age.
“Problem gambling and addiction to gambling can have devastating effects on people and their families through financial issues which impact on their lives or, in extreme cases, can lead to suicide.
“It’s vitally important that we have the right support in Barnsley for those who may have an issue with gambling or are affected by someone else’s gambling, which is why we’re running this survey to inform and shape the help we can offer.”
To complete the survey visit the Barnsley Council website.
