Safer Gambling Week 2025 kicks off across the UK with industry and government support

Safer Gambling Week 2025 will run from 17–23 November, uniting the gambling industry to promote responsible play and highlight tools and support available for customers. Organised by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), BACTA, and the Bingo Association, the initiative enters its ninth year.

The campaign will deliver a mix of online and land-based messages aimed at sparking a nationwide conversation on safer gambling. Data from last year’s campaign highlighted its impact: over 1.5 million unique accounts used safer gambling tools during the week, a 22% increase on the previous year, while deposit limits rose by 14%, with nearly half set for the first time. Social media engagement also reached new heights, generating over 60 million impressions across X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Baroness Twycross, Minister for Gambling, highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing harmful gambling. She noted that, under that mandate, the government introduced its statutory levy earlier this year to provide funding for tackling gambling-related harm while supporting the initiative.

Twycross also expressed support for the industry's annual initiative. “We welcome the contribution that Safer Gambling Week makes," she stated. "It provides a good opportunity to highlight the tools and support that are available to people who may need them."

Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, stressed the ongoing need for industry vigilance. “While progress has been made, we must continue to ensure that the tools and protections available to consumers are effective and widely promoted," he stated. “Collaboration and evidence-based action remain central to making gambling in Great Britain fairer, safer, and crime-free."

Shadow Minister for Culture, Media and Sport Louie French MP expressed support for the campaign, highlighting that while millions gamble safely each month, some experience significant harm.

“This important initiative brings the industry together to support safe and responsible gambling," French commented. "This initiative is one of the many examples of why Britain must stop the rise of the black market."

Industry leaders also discussed the initiative. Grainne Hurst, CEO of the BGC, pointed out that the week brings the entire industry together to promote safer gambling and ensure customers have access to the tools and support needed to stay in control.

Paul Swindon, Head of Governance and Compliance at the Bingo Association, noted that bingo has always focused on community and fun, and that Safer Gambling Week serves as a reminder to keep gambling social, safe, and within one’s means.

Allaster Gair, Director of Communications at BACTA, highlighted that the core message of Safer Gambling Week is ensuring everyone feels safe while enjoying themselves. “Our members take that responsibility seriously, offering support, advice, and safe spaces where customers can enjoy themselves responsibly," Gair said.

More information on Safer Gambling Week can be found at www.safergamblinguk.org.