RGSB publishes problem gambling strategy
New 12-point plan sets agenda for operators, regulators and public bodies
The Responsible Gambling Strategy Board (RGSB) has published a new responsible gambling strategy designed to minimise gambling related harm over the next three years
The new plan, features 12 ‘priority actions’, including raising awareness about forthcoming multi-operator self-exclusion plans, improving methods of identifying harmful play and piloting new forms of intervention such as customer interaction or debit card blocking.
The strategy was produced with input from the Gambling Commission following a public consultation last year.
“The overarching aim is to minimise gambling-related harm,” said RGSB chairman Sir Christopher Kelly.
“In recent years some positive steps have been taken to tackle gambling-related problems and this strategy is designed to build on those foundations.”
As well as setting the agenda for operators themselves, the strategy also aims to set targets for regulators, commissioning organisations, government, trade bodies, treatment providers and a number of other public agencies.
“The publication of the strategy is a call to action for all of the organisations with a responsibility to work to minimise gambling-related harm,” added Kelly. “For the strategy to make a real difference, it requires ownership and prompt action from a wide range of organisations.
“The strategy represents a huge opportunity to improve social responsibility in gambling, and minimise gambling-related harm.”
Other priority actions include consolidating a “culture of evaluation”, increasing understanding of the effects of various product characteristics and better engagement with gamblers themselves.
Problem gambling and self-exclusion tools for customers were thrust into the spotlight earlier this month after William Hill reported that up to 3,000 customers a week were limiting themselves online, costing the business up to ?25m a year.
However 63% of respondents to a recent EGR poll said that operators shouldn’t be overly concerned by the potential revenue hit brought about by self-exclusion, and should instead focus on the positive impact the take-up could have on the sustainability of the industry.
Responsible gambling and its impacts was the subject of the cover story of the March edition of EGR magazine and can be read here.