The newly formed Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), announced in July, is introducing measures to reduce problem gaming in betting shops.

The BGC says the Anonymous Player Awareness System (APAS), a real-time algorithm for gaming machines, will be implemented in UK shops to enforce a cooling-off period after indications of harmful play.

According to the body, APAS demonstrates shops' "continued work to ensure customers have a safe and enjoyable experience."

The BGC also recently announced £10m ($12.9m) of funding would be provided for a national education programme, designed and delivered by GamCare and YGam for children and young people.

Interim BGC CEO Wes Himes said: "I see this as an opportunity to champion the highest standards and share best practice on safe betting and gaming; we hope these new measures are a sign of intent.

"I’m convinced this approach can help restore public trust and I look forward to working on further safer betting and gaming initiatives across our industry."