Yorkshire and the Humber has a higher-than-average rate of problem gambling, with an estimated 3,721 adults per 100,000 population potentially requiring treatment or support, according to the UKGC.
With the gambling participation rates and the associated risks becoming increasingly significant, responsible gambling measures are more critical than ever.
To what extent are advertising and marketing to blame? What can be done? We spoke to industry insider Christoffer Ødegården, Head of Marketing at the award-winning iGaming comparison website Bojoko.com, to discuss how players can stay safe, the iGaming sector’s responsibilities, and how Bojoko promotes responsible gambling.
What measures can players take to ensure they gamble responsibly?
Players can take several steps to ensure they gamble responsibly. Setting limits on both spending and time before starting to gamble is crucial, and sticking to these limits helps avoid the trap of chasing losses. If players feel their gambling is becoming problematic, they should make use of self-exclusion tools available on most gambling sites. Additionally, seeking help from organisations such as GamCare is essential for those who find their gambling behaviour out of control.
What responsibilities does the iGaming sector have in promoting responsible gambling?
The iGaming sector has a clear moral and legal duty to promote responsible gambling. It must provide tools that allow players to set deposit limits, take time-outs, and opt for self-exclusion. Monitoring gambling behaviour through technology is another critical responsibility, enabling early identification of signs of problem gambling.
Moreover, the sector should invest in educating players about the risks associated with gambling and ways to gamble responsibly. By integrating these measures, the industry can create a safer environment for all players.
Does gambling advertisement directly contribute to problematic gambling, and what are ways to mitigate this risk in the adverts you put out?
It certainly can, and it is one thing we are very careful with. There are clear guidelines by the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority that gambling on what can and can not be said or shown. For instance, gambling can not be presented as a way to become sexually attractive or make money, and this is a huge help, as these kinds of adverts form the conversation and perception around gambling.
When we advertise gambling offers, responsible gambling is a crucial consideration. We are careful with the story we tell. Gambling needs to be presented as a hobby, something done for fun, with a clear understanding of the risks, and that the losses are a part of the fun. The house edge is always in the operator’s favour, and this has to be pushed home repeatedly. Advertisers who try to find loopholes and present gambling in ways that make people think they can chase their losses and win back their money are a part of the problem.
What initiatives has Bojoko implemented to promote responsible gambling?
At Bojoko, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling. We ensure that all operators on our platform comply with stringent responsible gambling guidelines.
Furthermore, we offer educational content that helps players understand the risks associated with gambling and provides tips on how to gamble responsibly. Collaborating with organisations like GamCare, we aim to raise awareness and support for those affected by problem gambling.
Could you elaborate on the available responsible gambling tools and their effectiveness?
Responsible gambling tools are essential for all UKGC-licensed iGaming operators. Deposit limits help players manage their spending, while time-out features allow them to take breaks from gambling when needed. Self-exclusion options provide a longer period for players to abstain from gambling. These tools are highly effective when used correctly, as they empower players to proactively manage their gambling habits, reducing the risk of developing gambling problems.
The UK government released a white paper on gambling regulations last year, with legislation set to be rolled out over the coming years. Can you shed some light on this and its potential impact on problem gambling?
The UK government’s white paper offers reasonable steps towards enhancing responsible gambling measures. It proposes more frequent wellness and financial checks to ensure that gamblers are not at risk. These measures are expected to create a safer gambling environment by preventing players from spending beyond their means and enabling early intervention for those showing signs of problem gambling.
Implementing these measures will likely lead to more robust protection for players and contribute to the well-being of those who gamble. Hopefully, we will see an apparent reduction in problematic gambling in York and beyond once the suggestions are implemented.