UK Betting Companies 'Commit' To Safer Gambling Initiatives

A group of UK betting industry leaders have committed to ‘safer gambling initiatives’ to combat problem gambling within the industry, in a bid to avoid further imposed regulations by Government bodies.

Caesars, Bet365, Flutter Entertainment (Paddy Power Betfair), GVC (Ladbrokes Coral), Rank Group, William Hill, Sky Betting and Gaming and Playtech are a number of operators who have already signed up to the scheme.

Combat Gambling Related Harm

These initiatives are to be implemented in support of the UK Gambling Commissions’ strategy to combat problem gambling and gambling related harm. The initiative is aimed at making long-term changes as to how operators are run and make changes in regards to the protection and support for its customers.

The five initiatives are the prevention of underage gambling, more support for the treatment of gambling related harm, expand codes of practice on advertising and marketing, customer protection and the promotion of safer gambling.

New Codes Of Conduct

A new four-year national programme to educate the younger generation is to be delivered by Gamcare and Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust. Operators are to introduce new codes of conduct around affiliate marketing and sponsorship, which will be monitored regularly.

Gambling Commission Executive Director, Tim Miller said,

“ Through the national strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms we have been clear for the important role for greater collaboration and partnership working across the industry, alongside robust regulatory action by us.

 “ We have been encouraged by moves across the industry in recent months to work together on player protection and hope that the programme marks another step forward by gambling companies in delivering on the ambitions in the National Strategy.”

A new representative body for the UK’s Betting and Gaming industry, The Betting and Gaming Council, will represent betting shops, online gaming businesses and casinos, ensuring fair play and a safe, enjoyable experience for its customers.

Chairman of the Betting and Gaming Council Brigid Simmonds said,

“ The Betting and Gaming Council welcomes these commitments from the chief executives. This is a major step forward in preventing underage gambling and addressing harm.”