UK Gambling Commission Introduces New Responsible Gambling Policy

The UK Gambling Commission has launched a new responsible gambling policy in an effort to curb gambling-related harm across the United Kingdom. The National Responsible Gambling Strategy focuses on irresponsible gambling problems and proposes certain approaches which will be implemented by gambling operators, trade bodies, industry regulators, and the government to tackle such issues.

The new National Responsible Gambling Strategy was compiled by the UK Responsible gambling Strategy Board (RGSB) following a consultation with the public. Since the adaptation of the Gambling Act 2005, the RGSB has been working with governments upon matters related to gambling problems and its importance.

What the Responsible Gambling Policy Entails

The newly published strategy proposed by the RGSB for the next three years aims to encourage gambling responsibility, mitigate and reduce gambling-related problems, as well as increases the protection of vulnerable publics.

In a statement, the board stated that the new strategy is aimed at both online and land-based casinos, as well as other forms of gambling including the National Lottery. Christopher Kelly, RGSB Chairman said the new document which is called “a call to action” will help all involved bodies to work towards minimizing gambling-related harm against customers. He further noted that they have made some progress so far and the National Responsible Gambling Strategy aims at building on existing progress.

According to Mr. Kelly, the new document presents a vision of what a ‘desirable outcome will look like.’ However, even though they said the vision is a major challenge and would require resources, the vision is achievable. Additional speed bumps and requirements include; expertise, and commitment from gambling operators including government officials, industry regulators and involved bodies. All in all however, the end goal is far from impossible to reach.