**The UK Gambling Landscape: New Measures to Enhance Safety and Accountability**
The UK is taking significant steps to create a safer gambling environment by introducing a new Statutory Levy and setting specific limits on stakes. These measures are designed to minimize the harm associated with problem gambling as part of a nationwide effort to ensure safer gambling practices.
**Recent Announcements and Measures**
Last week, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) revealed new regulations, introducing online slot stake limits of £5 for those over 25 and £2 for younger adults aged 18 to 24. This move aligns with recommendations made in the gambling White Paper. The Statutory Levy will target research, education, and treatment initiatives, with the National Health Service (NHS) leading as the chief commissioner.
This was emphasized by Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross during her address at GambleAware’s Annual Conference. She outlined the current government’s commitment to reforming gambling regulations to curb related harms while maintaining an environment where responsible gambling can thrive.
**A Balanced Approach to Gambling Regulations**
Twycross acknowledged the socio-economic contributions of the gambling sector, but stressed the importance of shielding consumers from its adverse effects. The Labour government, supportive of the 2023 gambling white paper, is keen on collaborating with the Gambling Commission and industry stakeholders to implement the crucial reforms laid out in the document.
**Implementing the RET Levy**
The establishment of the statutory RET Levy marks a pivotal moment for the gambling industry, requiring all businesses to contribute to harm prevention efforts. Twycross advocates for a transparent, fair, and sustainable system that reflects the levels of harm associated with different operators. Under NHS guidance, the aim is to enhance the availability, quality, and impact of services for gambling-related issues, tailored to meet local community needs.
With over £100 million allocated directly to support programs, the NHS plans to expand treatment services across the UK, creating a robust support system for problem gambling. This strategic shift ensures that resources are transparently utilized and focused on long-term improvements.
**Research and Development**
DCMS underscores the RET Levy’s role in fostering evidence-based research to refine gambling policies and protections. By collaborating with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), high-quality research will guide future policy-making and prevention initiatives. Acknowledging the contributions of third-sector organizations, the government aims for a seamless transition to the National Gambling Support Network.
**Game Design and Player Safety**
Addressing the issue of game design, the government ensures that the stake limits are consistent with those for land-based gaming machines, reinforcing player protections across the board. The emphasis is on adjusting game features such as play speed and avoiding automatic play to help players better understand and control their gambling activities.
**Expectations for Advertising and Sponsorship**
Twycross concluded by emphasizing the need for increased accountability in advertising and sponsorship within the gambling sector. She noted that excessive gambling promotions, especially during sports events, can disproportionately impact vulnerable individuals. The Gambling Commission, in conjunction with the industry, will further examine current practices and their impacts, aiming for consistent and responsible advertising standards.
As part of restructuring safer gambling messaging, the government, alongside the Department of Health and the Gambling Commission, plans to introduce new strategies. Twycross calls on the industry to actively participate in these initiatives to establish a safer gambling environment, underscoring the mutual benefits of a responsible approach to gambling practices.