Dawn Butler

Communities across the UK are being overwhelmed by gambling venues—and local councils can’t stop it. It’s time for change.

We’re calling for public support for Gambling Reform, new legislation that gives local authorities real power to protect our towns from the spread of betting shops and gambling harm.

Right now, councils are forced by law to “aim to permit” gambling premises—even when local residents, police, and health experts raise serious concerns. This outdated rule, buried in the Gambling Act 2005, means local voices are ignored and gambling venues continue to flood our high streets unchecked.

The result?

• Clusters of betting shops in some of the UK’s most deprived communities
• Rising levels of debt, poverty, and mental health issues
• Local authorities unable to act—even when they know harm is being done

Gambling Reform will:

✅ Remove the legal duty to approve gambling venues by default
✅ Give councils real control to say "no" when needed
✅ Channel more support into services tackling gambling addiction—costing the UK over £1.7 billion a year

This is not just about gambling. It’s about community safety, health, and fairness. It’s about restoring local control and stopping the exploitation of vulnerable people for profit.

We believe high streets should serve communities—not harm them.

Add your name to my petition. Share this message. Raise your voice.

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I'm using a new digital tool to help shape the future of our high streets — and I want your input!

Pol.is is an interactive platform that helps communities discover shared ideas and values. It allows you to vote on others’ suggestions and contribute your own, helping us identify areas of agreement about how our high streets should change or grow.

Here’s how you can take part:

1. Vote: Browse ideas submitted by others and choose Agree, Disagree, or Pass/Unsure on as many as you like.

2. Share your own ideas: Add your thoughts as short, clear statements — one idea per submission, and as many as you like.

Your voice helps shape the future. Give it a try — and let’s reimagine our high streets together!

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