As Safer Gambling Week 2024 concludes, betting and gaming legal expert Elizabeth Varley explores the most effective methods to ensure staff at all levels are fully equipped to spot warning signs.
Every year in the betting and gaming industry, we come together to give the dedicated attention and space to education, awareness and signposting for Safer Gambling Week. This year’s week runs from 18-24 November, and aims to get everyone talking about gambling responsibly, as well as directing those who need further advice and support to the right point of contact.
The week-long educational event, which is led by the licensed gambling industry with the support of a wide range of partners, will see every sector of the gambling industry in the UK taking part (bookmakers, bingo clubs, casinos and online gaming operators).
While responsible gambling is something we consider daily and are always aware of, it’s a benefit to both the public and the industry to listen, learn and join together during safer gambling week.
Staff training
Anyone who works in a licensed occupation in a strictly regulated industry knows how awkward it can be to tell a customer no, even when it’s for their own safety.
Whether it’s suggesting a glass of water instead of another whiskey or taking a break from the roulette table, it can be an uncomfortable situation for both parties. However, it’s often necessary for player protection, and making sure that every employee is up-to-date on industry best practice is vital to continued success in the sector.
A few key points to keep in mind for staff training:
- Do it and record it in your training log;
- Do it as part of induction;
- Look out for indicators of problem gambling;
- Be aware of how customers may seek help – self exclusion, setting time and spending limits and taking breaks;
- Engage in meaningful customer interactions; and
- Review gambling training at least annually.
Ultimately, the only way to maintain a sustainable, successful gambling industry is to ensure that it stays safe, fun and entertaining for customers at all times.
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This year’s Safer Gambling Week has garnered significant support from a myriad of political corners, gaining the backing of a wide range of cross-party Parliamentarians, including Ministers & Shadow Ministers came out to support Safer Gambling Week 2024.
Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the BGC, emphasised: “Safer Gambling Week is about showcasing safer gambling tools that exist in the regulated industry all year round to ensure that the millions of people who enjoy a regular flutter, continue to do so in a safe and responsible environment.
“Previous years have shown that this campaign leads to increased use of those popular safer gambling tools – like time-outs and deposit limits.”
