Organised by the BGC, the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta), the Lotteries Council and the Bingo Association, Safer Gambling Week is now in its fifth year. The 2022 event will run from 17-23 October.

As noted by the BGC, the campaign aims to unite the entire gambling industry, which will come together to further promote safer gambling messages, the tools available to customers to stay in control, and the help available to those who champion higher standards.

“Safer Gambling Week is now an established annual event,” said BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher. “We know that rates of problem gambling are low and are now falling, which is great news, but Safer Gambling Week is further evidence of the regulated industry’s determination to keep raising standards.

“BGC members demonstrate their commitment to safer gambling every day through initiatives such as the whistle to whistle ban on TV betting commercials during live sport and strict ID and age verification checks.

“Safer Gambling Week is a great opportunity to highlight this fantastic work – and emphasises the difference between the regulated industry and the unlicensed and illegal online black market, which has none of the safeguards which are commonplace among our members.”

The BGC added that, during Safer Gambling Week 2021, the promotion and awareness of safer gambling tools such as deposit limits led to a 17% increase in their use compared to the previous four-week average.

Miles Baron, Chief Executive of the Bingo Association, commented: “Safer Gambling Week is an important part of the bingo industry's commitment to social responsibility and provides a useful focal point for highlighting activity and support that is available throughout the year. 

“As venue-based businesses, the sector recognises the important opportunity we have to promote safer gambling messages and engage directly with customers.”