Safer Gambling Week, held in October 2022, proved to be a resounding success in promoting responsible gambling practices. According to data from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the event saw a significant increase in the number of sports betting accounts setting up deposit limits compared to the previous year. Additionally, a substantial percentage of players set deposit limits for the first time, indicating the effectiveness of the awareness campaign. The use of reality checks and engagement on social media platforms also experienced notable growth during Safer Gambling Week. These positive results underscore the regulated industry’s commitment to promoting safer gambling practices and differentiating itself from the unregulated online gambling black market.
Increased Adoption of Safer Gambling Tools:
During Safer Gambling Week, approximately 200,000 sports betting accounts implemented deposit limits, representing a 13% increase compared to the previous year. This rise demonstrates the growing awareness and acceptance of responsible gambling measures within the regulated industry. Of particular significance is the fact that 61% of players who set deposit limits during the campaign did so for the first time. This highlights the effectiveness of Safer Gambling Week in reaching and engaging with new audiences, encouraging them to take proactive steps towards safer gambling practices.
Surge in Reality Check Usage:
Another noteworthy development during Safer Gambling Week was the substantial increase in the use of reality checks by players. Reality checks involve on-screen alerts that display the duration of gaming sessions, serving as a reminder of the time spent gambling. The BGC reported a remarkable 300% surge in the number of players using reality checks during the campaign. This indicates that players are becoming more conscious of their gambling habits and are actively seeking tools to help them manage their playing time responsibly.
Social Media Engagement and Awareness:
Safer Gambling Week 2022 achieved new milestones in terms of social media engagement and awareness. The BGC recorded a significant increase of 21% in social media impressions generated on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This heightened online presence facilitated broader outreach, enabling Safer Gambling Week to reach a larger audience and disseminate its message of responsible gambling. The increased social media activity demonstrates the growing interest and engagement surrounding the promotion of safer gambling practices.
Recognition and Support from Industry Leaders:
Safer Gambling Week enjoys the support of various influential figures and organizations, including retired football manager Harry Redknapp, ex-Celtic striker John Hartson, and the UK Government. Government representatives such as DCMS Minister Damian Collins and Shadow DCMS Secretary Lucy Powell have expressed their endorsement of the campaign. This backing from both prominent individuals and governmental bodies emphasizes the importance placed on responsible gambling and highlights the collaborative efforts to foster a safer gambling environment.
Industry Commitment to Raising Standards:
BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher reiterated the significance of Safer Gambling Week and its impact on encouraging the use of safer gambling tools within the regulated industry. He emphasized that millions of customers now utilize safer gambling measures, including deposit limits and time outs, which demonstrate the industry’s dedication to promoting responsible gambling practices. Dugher also emphasized the stark contrast between regulated operators, who adhere to strict safeguards, and the unsafe and unregulated online gambling black market.
The success of Safer Gambling Week 2022 signifies the growing recognition and adoption of safer gambling practices within the regulated industry. The notable increase in sports betting accounts setting up deposit limits, the surge in reality check usage, and the amplified social media engagement all demonstrate the effectiveness of the campaign in promoting responsible gambling. The support from industry leaders and governmental bodies further underscores the commitment to raising standards and fostering a safer gambling environment. Safer Gambling Week serves as a powerful platform to continue driving awareness and encouraging the use of safer gambling tools, ultimately ensuring a more responsible and enjoyable gambling experience for all.