GambleAware backs Self Exclusion amid political reprieve

GVC hires ‘comms pro’ Tessa Curtis to re-energise media profile  August 25, 2020 Submit GambleAware: Engage those with lived experience of gambling harms August 28, 2020 Industry charity GambleAware has reaffirmed its support of the nationwide self-exclusion scheme GamStop amid reports that the scheme had been breached by problem gamblers.Entering 2019, the betting industry got off to a rocky start after BBC five live reports revealed that gamblers registered with the self-exclusion scheme were able to alter details provided at registration, allowing the continuation of gambling activity. Marc Etches, CEO of GambleAware, emphasised the need for self-exclusion tools to operate without fault: “Self-exclusion can be a last resort for people who are struggling with their gambling, which is why it is essential tools such as GamStop operate effectively. “Also, blocking software such as Gamban® can be an effective tool to help those at risk of getting into difficulties resist the ubiquitous gambling adverts and special offers that surround us these days.”He added: “Such tools work best as part of a treatment package tailored to the individual rather than being effective in isolation. If you’re worried about your or a loved ones gambling, there is free help and advice available online at BeGambleAware.org”This is not the first time that the effectiveness of the self-exclusion scheme has come under political scrutiny, as MPs are now warning that operators are still not doing enough to tackle problem-gambling behaviours.UK DCMS secretary Jeremy Wright warned of the implications of relaxed schemes: “Self-exclusion schemes are essential but must be properly policed and effective to support the individual who has taken the decision to opt out.“This is something I will be raising with the industry and Gambling Commission.”The move comes after controversial amendments to gambling legislation which will result in the reduction to maximum stakes-placed at fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) from £100 to £2, a decision that is intended to combat gambling-related harm. FOBTs have been a major revenues shared by retailers in recent years, with Gambling Commission statistics suggesting that on average there is £5m per day being wagered on the machines. Commenting on the decision to cut FOBT stakes, Stephen Timms, Labour MP for East Ham, stated: “A debate in the Commons five years ago exposed the problem. Stakes should have been cut then, and would have been if the Treasury had not been a beneficiary of the racket.” Premier League looks to broadcast every behind-closed-door fixture August 28, 2020 StumbleUpon Share Related Articles Share