GC directs £9m to GambleAware projects amid Covid-19 crisis
The GB Gambling Commission has announced it will direct £9m in funds from regulatory settlements to GambleAware, a commissioning charity that supports initiatives to tackle gambling-related harm, during the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Funds will be used to help ensure treatment and support services can continue to operate effectively and also withstand additional pressures on their services caused by the outbreak.
This will include supporting projects that have moved to alternative models of delivery, such as providing treatment online, as well as improving the treatment and support system.
The Commission said that while its research suggests an overall dip in gambling participation since the UK was put into lockdown in March, there is evidence that some people are increasing their use of certain gambling products such as online slots, poker, casino gaming and virtual sports.
Funding for the initiative was taken from regulatory settlements the Commission agreed with operators that breached regulations related to social responsibility, customer interaction and money laundering.
Since January 2020, the Commission’s regulatory investigations has led to the industry paying £27m in settlement packages.
“In the current climate, and with the potential risks to British consumers in mind, we have fast-tracked this settlement-driven funding to GambleAware so their work to prevent gambling harms and award grants can continue seamlessly,” the Commission’s chairman William Moyes said.
“In addition to a tough and flexible regulatory system, it’s vital that organisations such as GambleAware and their partners can continue the great work they do, especially at times when there is an elevated risk of gambling harm with people staying at home due to social distancing measures.”
GambleAware chief executive Marc Etches added: “We welcome the receipt of these regulatory settlements at this uncertain time. Guided by a public health model, GambleAware commissions prevention and treatment services across England, Scotland and Wales in partnership with expert organisations and agencies, including the NHS.
“These funds will enable us to provide greater security around the funding of the National Gambling Treatment Service, and help keep people safe from gambling harms.”
Earlier this month, GambleAware announced its full list of donors for the year ending 31 March 2020, with GVC’s £1.46m donation again leading the way. In total, 956 entities – mostly from gambling businesses – made voluntary donations, worth a combined £10.1m, exceeding the charity's target of £10m.