Gambling Commission funnels £9m in regulatory settlements to GambleAware
Fast-tracked funding provided to “withstand additional pressures” on gambling-related harm services during Covid-19 crisis
The Gambling Commission (UKGC) has accelerated its payment of £9m in regulatory settlements from operators to GambleAware to aid the safer gambling charity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
UKGC CEO Neil McArthur first revealed the change in funding direction in testimony at the Public Accounts Committee’s enquiry into gambling-related harm earlier this week.
McArthur defended the UKGC’s record during the Covid-19 crisis, saying that it had been proactive in addressing operator conduct throughout the period.
The money will be used to ensure the continued operation of treatment and support services for at-risk gamblers throughout the Covid-19 lockdown. It will also be used to support the movement of existing treatment services to online platforms.
UKGC research has said that gambling participation rates overall have reduced since the beginning of the lockdown period, due to the cancellation of sporting events and the closure of land-based casinos and betting shops.
However, the commission has claimed there is “evidence of an increase” in online casino gaming and virtual sports betting.
UKGC chair William Moyes said the funding would run in tandem with the UKGC’s own “tough and flexible regulatory system” and alongside wide-ranging actions taken by the commission throughout the lockdown.
“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,” said Moyes.
Since the turn of the year, UKGC fines have totalled £27m, with multi-million-pound fines being levied against Caesars Entertainment and Betway for respective failings in their social responsibility and VIP practices.
GambleAware CEO Marc Etches welcomed the additional funding, arriving during what he called an “uncertain” time for the gambling-related harm treatment charity.
“These funds will enable us to provide greater security around the funding of the National Gambling Treatment Service, and help keep people safe from gambling harms,” Etches added.