GambleAware secures record breaking £8 million, but charity urges industry stakeholders for deeper contribution

Updating the media and markets, Industry charity GambleAware has today confirmed that it has raised record-breaking £8 million in the 12 months ending 31st March 2017.

However, despite the upturn in its funding, the charity has detailed that the figure still represents a 20% shortfall of the target set by the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board.

An industry policy and best practices stakeholder, GambleAware is responsible for delivering many of the priority actions and provisions set out in the National Responsible Gambling Strategy 2016-19, published by the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board and endorsed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).

In 2012, the charity was granted the primary responsibility of raising the funds required to deliver this strategy. As such, the charity acts as the commissioner of research, education and treatment services from a wide range of organisations across Great Britain, ensuring funds are allocated and spent efficiently and effectively.

Marc Etches, Chief Executive of GambleAware commented on the update “GambleAware is committed to minimising gambling-related harm in Great Britain. Our aim is to stop people getting into problems with their gambling and to ensure those that do develop problems receive fast and effective treatment and support.

In Great Britain, it is estimated that 250,000 people have a gambling problem, and another 470,000 are at risk of developing one. However, only 3% of those who need help are currently getting the support they need. We all need to do more to raise awareness of the services available and to ensure sufficient capacity to meet increased demand.

This requires all businesses that profit from gambling to step up to the plate in the next twelve months to help us achieve our objectives. Whilst we continue to see the merits for maintaining the voluntary system of funding for research, education and treatment, our first priority has to be providing sufficient help for all those who seek it, so we would not hesitate in supporting the commencement of a statutory levy if the voluntary system fails to deliver.”