The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has released a list of organisations that operators can contribute to, as part of new guidelines.
A bigger focus on responsibility
Since January 1st 2020, it has been mandatory for brands to “direct their annual financial contribution for gambling research, prevention and treatment as required by LCCP SR code 3.1.1“.
Brands must not have a connection to the organisation(s) they donate to. Moreover, contributions must be made on an annual basis. The groups that count towards this are:
GambleAware;
GamCare;
Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM).
In more detail
In the release on its website, the UKGC didn’t mention a suitable amount that must be provided. Instead, this power is “reserved for Parliament”.
The commission will also keep a list to stay on top of who is and isn’t complying. Contributions can be made to non-gambling-related areas, but these won’t count as part of the rules. In its own words:
“Businesses can continue to donate funds to any organisation outside of the approved list, and the only change is that such contributions will not be counted as LCCP RET contributions. ”
Pressure groups have formed
The release of the UKGC’s guidelines comes after a report released in November by the Gambling Related Harm All-Party Parliamentary Group (GRH APPG). In this, the group called for various changes – including the introduction of £2 limits for online slot-style machines.
The group also demanded that affiliate marketing in the UK was reviewed. One recommendation was as is stated below.
“The use of Affiliates for marketing purposes should be reviewed as should whether senior staff employed by Affiliate marketing companies should also hold a PML.”
The report also wanted player bonuses and incentives to be reviewed, to “determine whether they contribute to harmful gambling”.
