UK operators confirm £100m problem gambling package for GambleAware
BGC members agree to provide funding to safer gambling charity for redistributed RET causes
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has revealed GambleAware will act as the primary commissioning agent for £100m in voluntary funding pledged by Britain’s five biggest bookmakers.
The bosses of bet365, GVC, Paddy Power Betfair, Sky Betting & Gaming and William Hill first announced the increase in funding in July 2019.
Under the arrangement, the five operators will increase their contributions from 0.1% to 0.25% of their annual revenue in 2020, rising to 0.5% in 2021, 0.75% in 2022 and finally to 1% in 2023.
However, the trade body has now revealed the additional funds will initially be provided to GambleAware who will then distribute the monies to research, education and treatment charities across the UK.
Addressing its appointment as main commissioning agent, a spokesperson for GambleAware said it would ensure that evidence-informed services are commissioned according to need in a “robust and accountable” system.
“This funding will enable GambleAware to continue to develop the National Gambling Treatment Service across England, Scotland and Wales in partnership with the NHS, public health agencies, local authorities, and voluntary sector organisation,” GambleAware added.
However, others were not so impressed by the appointment of the charity as principle commissioning agent.
Or to put it another way. Big 5 continue to control research and education which should be completely independent of any influence from the gambling industry. @GambleWithLives @GRHAPPG https://t.co/WGYFUAXOJL
— Ronnie Cowan (@ronniecowan) June 15, 2020
UK Minister for Sport Nigel Huddleston welcomed the further clarity on the direction of the £100m funding package, citing government calls for operators to take responsibility to protect at-risk players.
“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.”
Current UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock cited prior insights into gambling-related harm among players gained during his time at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
“The government will continue to tackle the consequences of problem gambling by rolling out specialist services on the NHS, which will offer expert care and treatment for those who need it,” Hancock added.