We aim to achieve a step change in the treatment and counselling available to those experiencing gambling related harm.
RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND TREATMENT FOR PROBLEM GAMBLERS
According to the Government, the rate of problem gambling is 0.2 per cent and has been stable for the last 20 years. However, one problem gambler is one too many.
While much is being done by recognised treatment providers, we recognise that a broader range of treatment services may be required.
To this end, we have committed to work constructively with national stakeholders and experts as they undertake an essential and comprehensive needs assessment.
DELIVERING ON OUR COMMITMENT
£100M TO IMPROVE GAMBLING TREATMENT SERVICES FOR PROBLEM GAMBLERS
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has confirmed that its biggest members will spend £100m improving treatment services for problem gamblers.
bet365, GVC, PaddyPower Betfair, Sky Betting and Gaming (which are both now part of Flutter Entertainment) and William Hill, announced earlier in the year that they will provide funds to the GambleAware charity who will be the main commissioning agent for ensuring funds reach people who require counselling and treatment.
The operators have already pledged to increase the amount they spend on research, education and treatment (RET) services from 0.1 per cent to 0.25 per cent of their annual revenue in 2020, 0.5 per cent in 2021, 0.75 per cent in 2022 and 1 per cent in 2023.
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 counselling available to those experiencing gambling-related harm.
“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 Betting and Gaming Council has also confirmed that £2.5 million will be made available to the YGAM/GamCare gambling education project in this financial year.
In addition, the large betting and gaming operators will continue to provide 0.1% of their annual revenue to GambleAware’s funding of RET, while BGC members will give an additional £3.8 million of funding to the BetRegret 2020 advertising campaign to encourage safer gambling.
£100M
To improve treatment services
+ £10M
To fund Young People's Gambling Harm Prevention Programme
+ £3.8M
To fund Bet Regret 2020
“Through the provision of this unprecedented level of financial support, we aim to achieve a step change in the treatment and counselling available to those experiencing gambling related harm.”
Peter Jackson, CEO, Flutter Entertainment
“I’ve seen first-hand how problem gambling can damage people’s mental health and affect the lives of those around them – and I’ve been determined to help protect vulnerable people from the impacts. So I’m delighted the Betting and Gaming Council is taking these steps to support treatment and provision for problem gamblers.”
Matt Hancock, Health Secretary
MORE SUPPORT FOR THE TREATMENT OF GAMBLING HARM
Our aims
- Our goal is to support a fourfold increase in access to gambling treatment and support services for people at risk, or directly affected by gambling-related harm, up from the current baseline by 2025.
Source: RGSB data
Our progress
In our first year of operation, we have worked with our members to:
- Announce £100M to improve treatment services for problem gamblers
- Spend an additional £3.8M to fund the 2020 Bet Regret campaign
- Spend an additional £10M to fund a youth gambling harm prevention programme
Going forward, we will:
- Engage with national stakeholders and recognised treatment and support providers as they map capacity requirements alongside gaining a comprehensive understanding of need
- Increase our financial backing to support delivery of this costed strategic plan
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