Responsible Gambling Trust

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The Responsible Gambling Trust, now operating under the new name GambleAware, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting safer gambling practices across the UK. It’s focused on educating both the public and gambling operators on the importance of responsible gambling, particularly as gambling regulations tighten and the industry grows. The Trust funds research, education, and treatment services for people with gambling problems and works closely with industry operators to ensure they are promoting safe gambling environments.

2016 Rebrand to GambleAware

The Responsible Gambling Trust (RGT) rebranded as GambleAware in 2016. The decision to change the name aimed to clarify its mission and enhance the public’s understanding of the organisation’s role in promoting responsible gambling and providing help for those affected by problem gambling. The new name, GambleAware, better reflects their ongoing work in funding research, education, and treatment services for problem gamblers in the UK.

Information Prior To 2016

Responsible Gambling Trust (RGT) is a UK charity that aims to minimise the harm that may be caused by gambling. Anyone living in the UK can access the charity for help and support with gambling problems.

Preventing Harm From Gambling

RGT is an independent body funded by voluntary donations from the gambling industry in Great Britain. The charity expects to raise at least £5million per year and uses these funds to pay for education, prevention and treatment, ensuring that those who need it can access the help they need. In 2014/2015, £6.5million was raised, with 85% of the total being spent on treatment and preventing harm from gambling. RGT also lobbies Public Health England and the NHS, intending to make treatment for gambling addiction as readily available as that for alcohol and drug-related abuse.

Spreading Gambling Awareness

However, the charity’s main aim is to make the public more aware of gambling problems and to prevent people suffering from gambling-related harm in the first place. For that reason, RGT regularly commissions research on both gambling behaviour and the effects of specific treatments available. All research aims to push forward the priorities advised by the advisory body, the Responsible Gaming Strategy Board (RGSB), and agreed upon by the UK Gambling Commission.In the past, RGT has come under some criticism as the organisation has ties with the gambling industry, which raises the issue that there is potential for it not to be truly unbiased. RGT invites government, RGSB and Gambling Commission representatives to observe its board and committee meetings to combat this. Details of how funds will be used are published annually, and research is commissioned through an independent committee.