GambleAware, a prominent British charity focused on promoting responsible gambling and aiding those affected by problem gambling, received a total of £46.5m ($58.2m) in donations for the 2022-23 fiscal year. Notably, four major gambling operators, namely Flutter, bet365, Entain, and William Hill, contributed a significant portion, accounting for 92% of the total donations. As GambleAware advocates for a statutory levy in the UK gambling industry, the recently proposed changes outlined in the Gambling White Paper have been welcomed by the charity.
GambleAware’s Objectives and Support:
GambleAware aims to assist individuals struggling with problem gambling and those who believe they may be spending beyond their means on gambling activities. The charity plays a vital role in providing information on safer gambling practices, raising awareness about the risks associated with gambling, and guiding individuals to seek further help, support, and information when needed. Moreover, GambleAware allocates grants for public health campaigns and research projects that enhance understanding and prevention of gambling-related harm.
Donation Breakdown and Major Contributors:
During the 2022-23 fiscal year, GambleAware received a total of £46.5m in donations. Notably, four major gambling operators played a significant role in supporting the charity’s endeavors. Flutter, bet365, Entain, and William Hill collectively contributed approximately £42.7m, representing an impressive 92% of the total donations received. This substantial support from key industry players highlights their commitment to responsible gambling initiatives and addressing the issue of problem gambling.
Government’s Gambling White Paper:
The UK Government’s recently published Gambling White Paper introduced proposals for a statutory levy, a mandatory fee imposed on gambling operators instead of voluntary donations to charitable organizations. GambleAware has long advocated for the implementation of a statutory levy and has expressed its support for the proposed changes outlined in the white paper. The charity recognizes the importance of stable funding to effectively deliver the National Gambling Support Network and other programs aimed at preventing and treating gambling-related harm.
GambleAware’s CEO Perspective:
Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, emphasized the significance of funding for the charity’s crucial work in preventing and treating gambling harm across Great Britain. Osmond welcomes the government’s plans to introduce a statutory levy, recognizing it as a means to provide stable funding for GambleAware’s initiatives. However, she also emphasizes the need for swift implementation of these changes, as any delays could impede the charity’s ongoing transformation of prevention and treatment services outlined in their five-year organizational strategy.
GambleAware’s impressive donations of £46.5m for the 2022-23 fiscal year, with 92% contributed by major gambling operators, underpin the significance of responsible gambling initiatives. The charity’s dedication to supporting individuals affected by problem gambling through educational efforts, grants for public health campaigns, and research projects remains paramount. With the government’s proposed introduction of a statutory levy, GambleAware looks forward to securing stable funding to continue its vital work in preventing and treating gambling-related harm. Swift implementation of these changes is essential to maintain the charity’s momentum and fulfill its long-term strategy.