This study explored how public health and licensing staff in London local governments understand gambling harms. It also looked at the factors that help or hinder the use of public health approaches. The researchers interviewed 19 participants and identified five main themes. These themes included: gambling takes many forms and all can be harmful; limited power and resources; gaps in knowledge; the role of public health teams; and differences between boroughs. Public health and licensing staff generally shared similar concerns. However, staff differed in their views on involving the gambling industry in local policy development.
