Data on gambling prevalence published by the U.K. Gambling Commission (UKGC) for 2021 showed a decline in problem gambling rates.
A quarterly survey by Yonder Consulting pointed out a decline in the rate from 0.6 percent to 0.3 percent in a year.
Problem gamblers aged 16 to 24 saw an even steeper drop from 0.8 to 0.4 percent.
“Since being established in 2019, we have worked tirelessly to drive up standards in the regulated betting and gaming industry and promote safer gambling,” said Michael Dugher, chief executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, the industry trade group.
Initiatives have included using advertising to promote safer gambling tools like deposit limits and time-outs; investing more in research and treatment; funding an education program provided by GamCare and the Young Gamers and Education Trust (YGAM); implementing the credit card ban; introducing tough new rules on VIP schemes and changes in game design; as well as using technology to intervene with customers online, according to SBC News.
“One problem gambler is one too many, however, and we are determined to keep up the momentum in the months and years ahead,” Dugher said.
The biggest drop in age groups came from the 25 to 32-year-old category which fell from 1 percent to 0.3 per cent.
“We always need to do more to provide greater protection to the tiny minority of people who are vulnerable to problem gambling, whilst recognizing that the overwhelming majority of millions of people who enjoy a flutter do so safely and responsibly,” Dugher said.
