Norwich has experienced strong population growth, outpacing most neighbouring districts and reinforcing its role as the primary urban and economic centre in Norfolk (Norwich City Council, 2024; CT Data Haven, 2025). The city also has the highest proportion of working-age residents in the county, supporting economic activity and labour market participation. However, alongside these positive demographic trends, significant challenges persist. Norwich continues to experience long-term inequality, with many residents particularly vulnerable to cost-of-living pressures. Deprivation remains geographically concentrated, with persistent pockets of disadvantage affecting economic resilience, health outcomes, and overall wellbeing across the city (Norwich City Council, 2024; CT Data Haven, 2025).
Norwich is a fast-growing and comparatively youthful city, shaped by a high level of social housing provision and pronounced socioeconomic contrasts. Although recent demographic and economic trends reflect a dynamic and expanding urban population, significant challenges persist, particularly in relation to deprivation, child poverty, and the quality of housing stock. Evidence from 2024–2026 underscores Norwich's dual character: a thriving regional centre with strong assets in employment, education, and culture, alongside enduring structural inequalities and vulnerabilities that continue to affect many communities across the city.
This section highlights groups who may be more vulnerable to gambling-related harm within Norwich. It explains how applicants are expected to reflect these risks in their local risk assessments, in line with the licensing objective of protecting vulnerable persons.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate an understanding of both national evidence and local circumstances, and to show how risks will be identified, mitigated and reviewed.
Young people are legally restricted from gambling (with limited statutory exceptions) and are recognised nationally as a vulnerable group.