The gambling space, and the way people gamble, has changed dramatically over the past decade. The industry has invested heavily in technology resulting in a huge increase in online gambling. Consumers now have access to an open-all-hours casino in their pocket and regulation has struggled to keep pace.
This note summarises policy recommendations for immediate action based on the findings from a comprehensive Behavioural Risk Audit of 10 of the top UK gambling operators. The audit identified over 25 design features of operator sites which put consumers at risk of making poor choices or which introduce artificial barriers to more beneficial choices. These recommendations were developed through deliberation with industry, gambling support services and policy makers, who support change in these areas. Each recommendation was chosen based on its clear potential benefits to consumers, the existing evidence for what works to reduce gambling harm, and its ability to be implemented quickly.
To discuss these policy recommendations in more detail or you have relevant expertise the GPRU team would love to hear from you – please get in touch!
