Residents invited to have their say on Tameside’s Gambling Licensing Policy

Tameside Council is inviting residents, businesses and community organisations to take part in a public consultation on its updated Gambling Licensing Policy for 2026 to 2029.

By law, the Council must publish a refreshed Statement of Gambling Policy every three years. The policy sets out how gambling premises such as bookmakers, bingo halls and adult gaming centres are licensed and regulated across the borough, and how the Council ensures gambling activity is safe, fair and well-managed.

As there have been no significant changes to legislation or national guidance since the last review, the Council is proposing to re-adopt the existing policy without amendments. The policy reflects shared principles developed across Greater Manchester, including strengthened public health information, clearer expectations for local area risk assessments and safeguarding measures for vulnerable people. It also sets out standards for staff training, data sharing and premises layouts.

A six-week consultation will give people the opportunity to share their views on the policy. Those being consulted include the police, gambling operators and licence holders, public health representatives, and organisations that support people affected by gambling-related harm. Written notifications will also be sent to responsible authorities and relevant businesses across the borough.

Following the consultation, a further report will be presented to the Council’s Executive Cabinet, summarising responses and outlining any proposed amendments.

The Gambling Licensing Policy plays a key role in supporting safe and supportive communities by promoting the three national licensing objectives: preventing gambling-related crime and disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and protecting children and vulnerable people from harm.

Support is available for anyone experiencing harm from gambling, as well as for their friends and family. Tameside Council has been working with Beacon Counselling Trust to tackle gambling-related harm locally. The Trust offers free counselling for anyone affected, a self-assessment tool, and aims to make contact with those seeking help by the next working day. People can self-refer by calling 0151 226 0696 or emailing support@beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk. Further information is available at https://beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk/get-support/.

GamCare also provides non-face-to-face support through its National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, as well as online services via its website.

Councillor Laura Boyle, Executive Member for Environmental Services and Neighbourhoods, said: “Keeping our Gambling Licensing Policy up to date is an important part of protecting residents and ensuring that gambling in Tameside is conducted responsibly. We want to hear from residents, businesses and partners to make sure the policy continues to reflect local needs and supports safe and well-regulated communities.”

Residents will be able to take part in the consultation via the Council’s website once it opens and are encouraged to share their views to help shape the policy for the next three years.