UK’s betting and gaming council to spend £100m to tackle problem gambling

BGC has revealed that its five largest members will spend £100m in improving treatment services for problem gamblers

Nigel Huddleston said that they will monitor closely the progress of these new measures and continue to encourage the wider industry to step up. 

The Betting and Gaming Council’s five largest members bet365, GVC, PaddyPower Betfair, Flutter Entertainment and William Hill, announced that they will spend £100 million to improve treatment services for problem gamblers. The funds will go directly to the GambleAware charity who will be the main commissioning agent for ensuring funds reach the right people who are in need. 

Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, said: “GambleAware has a long track record in commissioning treatment services and working with providers for the benefit of problem gamblers. Through the provision of this unprecedented level of financial support, we aim to achieve a step-change in the treatment and counseling available to those experiencing gambling-related harm.”  

Jackson added: “As an industry, we are taking significant strides to build in further protections for customers. From increasing safer gambling messages in response to Covid-19, to a £10 million nationwide education initiative targeting all 11-19 years olds across the country, we are creating a safer environment for our customers while devoting resources to protecting the vulnerable and under-age.” 

The BGC has also confirmed that £2.5m will be made available to the YGAM/GamCare gambling education project in this financial year and £3.8m of funding will be send to the BetRegret 2020 advertising campaign to encourage safer gambling. 

Minister for Sport Nigel Huddleston said: “We have been clear that the gambling industry has a responsibility to protect people from gambling-related harm and support those who have been affected. I welcome the Betting and Gaming Council now outlining how it will deliver on leading operators’ pledges to bolster research, education and treatment. We will monitor closely the progress of these new measures and continue to encourage the wider industry to step up.” 

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