GambleAware supports UKGC’s previsions

The entity has welcomed UKGC’s newest regulations aimed to protect children from gambling.

UK.- GambleAware has voiced its support to the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) provisions released this week, which are aimed at protecting young people from the dangers that gambling could bring. The entity also updated its patterns of play research programme.

While the charity has welcomed UKGC’s provisions, it reiterated its main concern that 12 per cent of 11- to 15 -year olds are believed to be involved in regular gambling, which makes them more exposed to that than to sports like hockey or skateboarding.

The UKGC urged those who are responsible for safeguarding children to work with them to address the issues identified in the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board (RGSB). According to the regulator, they need to address access and exposure to gambling by children and young people, digital and online risks, preventative education and treatment and evidence collection and consumer engagement.

The 12 per cent number has significantly decreased from 2011 when it stood at 23 per cent, but the biggest fall was recorded between 2011 and 2013. Approximately 41 per cent of the activity happens privately with family and friends, and over 51 per cent happens in activities that are not allowed for their age.

GambleAware CEO Marc Etches said: “GambleAware is concerned that 1 in 8 children aged between 11- and 15-years old are gambling regularly, and it is unacceptable that as many as 30,000 may be problem gamblers. Reducing gambling-related harms for children and young people requires firm regulatory action and we welcome the Gambling Commission’s focus on this issue.”

Moreover, GambleAware published an update to its ‘patterns of play and consumer vulnerability’ programme of work, following a well-attended briefing event earlier this month. Along with the UKGC and the RGSB, GambleAware is commissioning research that will look at patterns of play and consumer vulnerability. The goal of the project is to better understand how gambling behaviour varies across different products and environments, and which characteristics are most strongly associated with harm. The formal invitation to tender is expected to be launched on July 6th.