Recognising gambling as a significant harm

Last week, I was delighted to sign an important charter recognising the harm inflicted by gambling and pledging support for those affected. This charter, signed by Dorset Police in partnership with ARA – Recovery for All, is the first of its kind to be signed by any police force in the south west, and marks an important step forward in recognising gambling as a significant harm, alongside alcohol and drug addiction.

Since I became Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, I have been determined to strengthen the response for those affected by gambling-related harm. Having heard first-hand the impact harmful gambling can have, I know how it can lead to a range of other behaviours including crime-related issues if not recognised and addressed.

That’s why, as PCC, as well as in my role as joint lead for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ addictions and substance misuse portfolio, I have and remain committed to working with Government, local authorities and health partners to strengthen how we respond to gambling-related harm in Dorset and beyond.

Gambling harm is increasingly recognised as both a public health and safeguarding issue. While many people gamble without issue, for others it can result in serious consequences including financial hardship, poor mental health, relationship breakdown and, in some cases, criminal behaviour. Nationally, gambling-related harm is estimated to cost England approximately £1.27 billion each year, and specifically, gambling-related crime costs £162million each year.

This charter is important as it formalises a shared pledge to recognise the harm that gambling can cause, to raise awareness, and to ensure meaningful support is available to those affected. Crucially, it moves beyond recognition and into action, embedding practical measures across Dorset Police and my Office.

For policing, the effects of gambling harm are often visible in the incidents which officers attend, ranging from acquisitive crime and domestic abuse to vulnerability and mental health crises. The Charter is designed to help officers and staff better identify when gambling may be a contributing factor, strengthening both safeguarding and preventative approaches.

I’m really pleased that progress has already been made thanks to the strong partnership with ARA – Recovery For All. They already provide specialist support within Dorset custody suites, Out of Court Resolutions and victim services. This ensures that individuals who encounter policing services are able to access trusted, tailored recovery support when they need it most.

Through this Charter, Dorset Police and the OPCC are committing to:

• Increasing awareness and understanding of gambling harms among officers and staff
• Improving recognition of the signs and risk factors associated with gambling addiction
• Ensuring individuals are appropriately signposted to specialist support services
• Embedding gambling harm considerations into wider safeguarding and prevention work

The harmful consequences of gambling can have far-reaching effects. Through signing this Charter, I hope we send a clear signal that support is available for those affected, and that they don’t have to suffer in silence. This is the first step, and I am looking forward to seeing the progress we will make, strengthening our support and awareness for the benefit of our own workforce and the people of Dorset.

David Sidwick

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

Gambling Support:

ARA – Recovery for All - Gambling Harms Services - Ara Recovery 4 All

NHS – and signposting for other services - Help for problems with gambling - NHS