Have your say on Lewisham's new Gambling Policy

Lewisham Council has today launched a five-week consultation, giving people the chance to have their say on the borough’s approach to regulating gambling premises and reducing the risk of gambling-related harm. 

The proposed changes for the next three years would:

• place greater emphasis on protecting young people and those who may be vulnerable to gambling-related harm
• set clearer expectations for how gambling operators should identify and respond to risks connected with their premises
• strengthen the link between local evidence, operators’ risk assessments and licensing decisions
• make greater use of local evidence through a new Local Area Profile

The Council wants to hear from anyone with an interest in gambling in Lewisham, including residents, people who gamble or have been affected by gambling-related harm, parents and carers, young people, community organisations, professionals and local businesses. Feedback received through the consultation will help inform the final policy before it is considered by the Council.

Cllr Leni Candan, Chair of the Licensing Committee and Evelyn ward councillor said:

“Gambling affects people, families and communities in different ways, so it is important that our policy reflects as wide a range of local experiences as possible. 

“The proposed policy emphasises the importance of protecting young people and those who are most vulnerable to gambling-related harm. 

“It would also set clearer expectations for gambling operators to identify any local risks and explain the steps they will take to reduce the potential for harm.

“Whether you have personal experience of gambling, your life has been impacted by gambling, or you simply live or work in the borough, I encourage you to read the draft policy and tell us what you think. 

“Your feedback will make a real impact on the final policy.”

Lewisham Council is obliged to review and publish its Gambling Policy at least every three years. The policy sets out the principles we will apply when carrying out our gambling licensing responsibilities under the Gambling Act 2005. The Act’s licensing objectives include preventing gambling from contributing to crime or disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and protecting children and vulnerable people from harm or exploitation.

The consultation closes on Sunday 8 November 2026.

Complete the consultation online. People who need the questionnaire in a different format can email licensing@lewisham.gov.uk or call 020 8314 6505.