Rangers FC, a prominent football club in Scotland, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Kindred, aimed at providing independent gambling education sessions for its players and staff. This strategic partnership, funded by Kindred, will be executed in collaboration with Epic Risk Management, a leading safer gambling consultancy with a wealth of experience across various sports entities. The tailored education sessions will address individual needs and draw insights from former football players with firsthand experience in navigating gambling-related issues, including those who have played at an international level.
Kindred’s Commitment to Safer Gambling:
Sam Mead, UK General Manager at Kindred Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a sustainable business built on ensuring people can enjoy gambling responsibly. The collaboration with Rangers aligns with Kindred’s broader initiative, ‘Journey towards Zero,’ which focuses on promoting safer gambling practices. Mead highlighted ongoing investments in technology, including the development of detection software, coupled with an increased emphasis on education and safer gambling messaging. This multifaceted approach aims to drive Kindred’s sponsorship model, benefiting not only clubs but also their communities.
Rangers FC’s Focus on Player Well-being:
Karim Virani, Chief Commercial Officer at Rangers FC, emphasized the club’s recognition of the importance of safeguarding players and staff, creating a platform for open discussions in a supportive environment. Virani underscored the unique advantage of having former football players lead the education sessions, adding a crucial element of relatability beyond the conventional rule book discussions. The positive, long-term relationship between Rangers FC and Kindred has paved the way for this collaborative effort, positioning the club at the forefront of addressing gambling-related issues in Scottish football.
Inclusivity and Scope of the Initiative:
The comprehensive education program will involve active participation from various segments of the Rangers FC community, including the men’s first team, B-team, women’s teams, and selected academy cohorts. The decision to conduct separate sessions for different groups reflects a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs within the club. By extending the initiative across multiple teams, Rangers FC aims to create a unified and inclusive approach to gambling education, fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness.
Kindred’s Recent Report and Industry Context:
This initiative unfolds against the backdrop of Kindred’s recent report highlighting an increase in revenue from harmful gambling sources in Q3 2023. The juxtaposition of this report with the commitment to funding a comprehensive gambling education program underscores Kindred’s proactive stance in addressing the broader societal impact of its industry. The collaboration with Rangers FC serves as a tangible step towards mitigating the potential harms associated with gambling, showcasing the industry’s recognition of its responsibility to contribute to a safer gambling environment.
The partnership between Rangers FC and Kindred, focused on delivering tailored gambling education sessions, marks a significant milestone in promoting safer gambling practices within the football community. By leveraging the expertise of Epic Risk Management and incorporating insights from former players, the initiative embodies a holistic approach to addressing gambling-related issues. As football clubs increasingly acknowledge their role in player well-being beyond the field, collaborations like these set a positive precedent for responsible gambling initiatives within the sports industry.