The seventh edition of Safer Gambling Week 2023 occurred on 13-19 November. It was hosted by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) in collaboration with two other stakeholders, the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta) and the Bingo Association. 

The week is dedicated to encouraging responsible gambling. 

The Safer Gambling Week is comprehensive in its covering both online and land-based casinos. Its work is supported by bookmakers, amusement arcades, bingo clubs, casinos and online gaming operators. 

Additionally, it has backing from industry stakeholders such as charities, MPs, peers and sports teams, especially football clubs. The football clubs include Premier League clubs such as West Ham United and Brighton and Hove Albion.

BGC CEO and interim chair Michael Dugher  said, 

“These new figures show Safer Gambling Week continues to be a powerful advert for increasing the use of safer gambling tools in the regulated industry,

“Millions of customers now use safer gambling tools including deposit limits and time outs. This is a pillar of the regulated industry and is in marked contrast to the unsafe, unregulated and growing online gambling black market, which provides no safer gambling support, contributes zero tax and does not support sport.

“Our members promote these tools all year round. However, a single dedicated week, bringing together the whole sector alongside huge support from cross-party MPs, from the government and the independent regulator the Gambling Commission, really turbocharges that work – and these figures show it makes a real difference. 

“The record numbers for both impressions and use of safer gambling tools show the industry has never been more committed to ensuring the many millions who enjoy a regular flutter continue to do so in a safe and responsible environment.” 

Insights from Research

BGC conducted research which provided valuable insights into responsible gambling among British consumers. The use of responsible gambling increased during the week. 

Increases were seen in three instances:

• Deposit limits increased by 18% year on year 

• Reality checks by 300%

• Maximum stake limits by 300%

Additionally, it is important to note that deposit limits were set by 83242 unique account holders which was an increase of 12.5% from the previous year. 

Social media was also identified as a significant driver of responsible gambling. The major channels were X, Facebook and Instagram which saw more than 50 million impressions and messaging was placed on social media 30 million times.  The latter represents a 70% increase in visibility.