Betting industry launches GambleAware Week

It coincides with the introduction of new machine rules, announced in November, making it compulsory for players to choose whether or not to set a limit.

Across the country, Britain’s bookmakers will transform their shop windows to encourage all customers to only bet what they can afford to lose. For those concerned about their gambling habits, they will be encouraged to ask members of staff that have been specifically trained to help them address their problem. Independent operators will be supplied with materials by the ABB.

As part of the planned activities throughout the week, the industry is committed to:

•Enhanced customer information. Two specific leaflets will be produced. One advertising GambleAware Week and one promoting how and why players should set a limit on machines.

•In-shop and online promotion. The major operators will promote the week on gantries and television screen located in shops with some also planning for the week to take over their corporate website landing pages.

•A partnership with GamCare’s counseling service. The ABB, with the support of William Hill, will undertake a series of public engagement events with Gamcare in Liverpool. Training workshops, door-to-door leafleting and a drop-in session at Gamcare’s local counseling service will be coordinated.

GambleAware week comes just days after the four largest operators, William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral and Paddy Power, officially launched the Senet Group, an independent body established to promote responsible gambling standards and ensure that the marketing of gambling is socially responsible.

It also follows the publication of the Responsible Gambling Trust’s (RGT) research on gaming machines in Licensed Betting Offices (LBOs) in December.

One of the key findings of the research was that gambling behaviors are complex and that there is no one measure alone that will have an impact on levels of problem gambling. It requires a mixture of interventions that must be evaluated and tested. The industry has welcomed the research and is committed to using the findings to help determine how the industry can further help those customers who may be at risk.

Speaking about the launch, Paul Darling QC, Chair of the ABB, said,

“GambleAware Week marks the latest step in the industry’s approach to responsible gambling. We are absolutely committed to addressing public concern and doing everything we can to better protect our customers.

In recent months, we’ve made a number of changes, on the basis of evidence, to significantly improve player protection.

However, we remain determined to do more and will continue to work with all interested parties in order to build on the measures already taken.”