Problem Gamblers Are Twice as Likely to Lose Their Tenancy, Study Says

Aston University’s Centre for Personal Financial Wellbeing has concluded a two-year study of the effect of problem gambling on tenancy security. The work highlights the potential dangers of problem gambling and how it exposes people to the risk of losing their homes.

This first-of-its-kind study was done in collaboration with the Birmingham City Council (BCC) and concluded that problem gamblers are two times more likely to experience rent-related problems than casual gamblers. Whereas 2 in 10 occassional gamblers experienced problems paying their rent, 4 in 10 problem gamblers had to borrow money or use the services of loan sharks.

In addition, 31% of affected others reported that a loved one’s problem gambling has led to rent arrears.

The BCC concluded that gambling addiction is a growing factor in tenancy loss and emphasized that this is why it sought to understand the link between problem gambling and tenancy loss. The council explained that it seeks to develop strategies that would reduce the risk of gambling-related tenancy loss.

The report suggests collaboration between housing providers and support organizations. The publication recommends providing gambling training to housing staff and tenants, teaching them to identify signs of harm. Furthermore, the report notes that support referral pathways and cross-sector teamwork may greatly alleviate the issue.

The Findings Are Also Applicable to Other Organizations

Professor Andy Lymer, director of the Centre for Personal Financial Wellbeing, explained that the project’s goal was to cultivate an understanding of how problem gambling can affect tenants. This understanding would allow the BCC to develop support systems that prevent gambling-related tenancy loss.

While the research sought to help the BCC, Lymer pointed out that its recommendations would be “equally applicable to other landlord councils or social housing providers.” Lymer concluded that the most important point of this project is the potential beneficial effect of collaboration with organizations, such as gambling support charities.

Dr Halima Sacranie, the project’s leading researcher, also commented on the matter, echoing Lymer’s words about the importance of partnerships with support agencies, such as Aquarius. She proposed “a traffic light system” to gauge risk levels and match interventions.

We’ve outlined a framework for Birmingham City Council to enhance and evaluate these interventions, suggesting key performance indicators for monitoring progress. This includes a tailored strategy, mapping interventions onto the Council tenant journey to create a cohesive system of awareness and support.

Dr Halima Sacranie

The project is ongoing and anyone interested to weigh in on the matter should contact the council.