Southampton City Council Joins National Coalition to End Gambling Advertising

Southampton City Council has become the latest local authority—and the first with official city status—to join the Coalition to End Gambling Ads (CEGA), strengthening its commitment to tackling gambling-related harm and promoting a healthier, more equal city.

CEGA brings together more than 30 organisations calling for the UK Government to take urgent action to restrict gambling advertising, citing growing evidence of the link between marketing and gambling-related harm.

According to local estimates, around 22,110 adults in Southampton experience harmful gambling, while a further 15,053 residents are affected by someone else’s gambling behaviour. By joining the coalition, Southampton City Council has pledged to raise awareness of these harms, ensure residents know how to access support, and prohibit gambling promotions from appearing on council-owned advertising screens.

Councillor Marie Finn, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said:
“We’re really pleased to be the latest member of the Coalition to End Gambling Ads. The negative harms caused by gambling, whether it’s physical, financial, mental or social, are all heavily influenced by gambling advertising. We’re passionate about making Southampton safer, healthier and more equal for our residents.”

Councillor Gordon Cooper, Councillor for Bitterne Park, added:
“Now is the time for us to recognise the gambling harms in our city and for us to work together with partners and communities across the city, using best practice, to reduce the harm that comes from gambling. It is our ambition to raise the profile of local action and ensure that those who are particularly at risk have the right support available to them.”

Residents affected by gambling can access specialist treatment through the Southern Gambling Service, run by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Support is available via hiowh.southerngamblingservice@nhs.net.