• High Street site visit discussed the contribution the amusements sector provides to the economy and its recovery from Covid-19

Henry Smith MP visited the Admiral high street adult gaming centre in Crawley (on Friday, 19th November) to discuss the amusements industry, high street gaming centres and how the sector is recovering from the pandemic.

Henry said;

“It was a pleasure to meet the local team at Crawley and find out more about their business, the training they provide for staff the vital role they play on our high streets.”

“I welcome the Review into gambling legislation that is taking place, as the current legislation pre-dates the prevalence of online gambling and many significant technological advances. I hope that this review leaves space for businesses such as Admiral which offer low stake, low prize entertainment for over 18s in a sociable and safe environment.”

The visit provided an opportunity to meet local staff and customers, find out about the sector’s offer and discuss the importance of social responsibility measures. During the visit, Henry heard how the high street gaming sector has recently dealt with a number of challenges, such as having to deal with extended lockdowns, but that it is beginning to recover alongside the rest of the high street.

Henry was informed that Admiral managed to avoid any redundancies during the pandemic, not just in Crawley, but across the sector. 

The discussion during the visit also covered Admiral’s employment signature in the area, the significant levels of training courses that are available to staff and the forms of gaming available to customers. He was also impressed by the high level social responsibility training which is mandatory for all staff and the tools they use as a business to ensure the environment is fun, sociable, and safe for all customers.

Most importantly, Henry was keen to hear about the provision of bespoke training, through face to face sessions but also through online platforms and webinars, supporting them in a highly regulated environment and in their professional development. 

Shaun Hooper, Regional Operations Director for Admiral Crawley and one of the hosts, said;

“We think it is important to introduce our business first-hand so that MPs and local stakeholders can see what we do. The industry has an important friendly, social and entertainment offer that adds value to our towns and high streets, and we are delighted to be supporting the recovery and be back in operation.”

“We’re very grateful to Mr Smith for his time and look forward to working proactively together to see how we can support this local business.”