UKGC fast-tracks £9m of funding to GambleAware

There have been several stories in the last few months, of gambling operators being fined huge amounts for failings with regards to player responsibility and money laundering checks. As a result, the UKGC have received £27million since January from penalty charges. In a bid to boost the funding of gambling harm treatment in the UK due to the Covid-19 crisis, the UKGC have fast-tracked £9million to GambleAware.

Increase in gambling during Coronavirus lockdown

With casinos and bingo halls closed and the nation told to stay home, there has been an increase in the number of people gambling online.  While the majority do so responsibly, there is a significant number that don’t, and every effort is being made to ensure those players are protected as effectively as possible. The money raised from the penalties given to certain gambling operators, will go directly towards supporting services to deal with gambling related harm and those affected by it, especially during this period.

Operator failings

The payments were made to the UKGC from various gambling operators after serious failings were discovered both in terms of player responsibility and money launderings. Examples included players being able to deposit over £1 million despite listing ‘retired postman’ as their occupation, players self-excluding, then depositing large sums without being contacted, and failure to ensure correct and proper source of income checks were carried out.

Fast-tracked money

The Chairman of the UKGC, William Moyes said “In the current climate, and with the potential risks to British consumers in mind, we have fast-tracked this settlement-driven funding to GambleAware so their work to prevent gambling harms and award grants can continue seamlessly.

“In addition to a tough and flexible regulatory system, it’s vital that organisations such as GambleAware and their partners can continue the great work they do, especially at times when there is an elevated risk of gambling harm with people staying at home due to social distancing measures.

“Through the use of regulatory action to prevent harm, such as the ban of credit for gambling, alongside the use of regulatory settlements to support treatment services, the Commission is taking wide ranging action to address the additional risk of harm that may come from COVID-19.”