Betting Ad Controversy: GambleAware Pushes for Change Ahead of Euro 2024
GambleAware has called for introducing smoking-style health warnings on betting advertisements ahead of Euro 2024. The UK gambling charity argues that the current slogan, “Take Time To Think,” is insufficient and proposes new guidelines to address the impact of gambling ads on those with gambling problems.
GambleAware’s Call for Stronger Warnings
GambleAware has urged implementing smoking-style health warnings in advertisements for bookmakers and online casinos ahead of the Euro 2024 football tournament. The charity’s call comes amidst concerns that an increase in betting ads during major sports events could impede efforts by individuals trying to reduce or quit gambling. This move reflects a growing awareness of the need for more stringent regulations to protect vulnerable individuals from the potential harms of gambling.
The UK gambling charity has specifically criticised the current industry-approved slogan “Take Time To Think,” which is prominently featured in gambling advertisements, as “inadequate.”
According to GambleAware, extensive exposure to betting ads, particularly during high-profile events like Euro 2024, exacerbates challenges faced by those with gambling problems. The charity has proposed new guidelines, suggesting health warnings such as “Gambling can be addictive” and “Gambling comes at a cost” to be included in all gambling advertisements.
All responsible betting and gaming websites offer a range of ways to help you manage your spend and time – and cool off when you need to. So, before you play, pause and #taketimetothink.https://t.co/hWktBS4x6f pic.twitter.com/l2VnqFOrHH
— Take Time To Think (@taketimethinkuk) June 14, 2024
Funded by donations from the gambling industry, GambleAware’s independence has been questioned by some. However, the charity remains adamant about the need for stronger ad warnings despite potential conflicts with industry operators and their lobby group, the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC). The BGC, which developed the “Take Time To Think” slogan, maintains that the slogan was created through consultation with government officials and academics to promote responsible betting effectively.
GambleAware’s call for change is backed by research, including a YouGov survey commissioned by the charity. The survey revealed that over half of individuals with gambling problems find it challenging to cut back on gambling due to the prevalence of betting ads.
Additionally, 55% of respondents reported feeling overwhelmed by the volume of gambling advertisements. Alexia Clifford, chief communications officer at GambleAware, emphasised the importance of these findings, stating, “We know that gambling advertising can contribute to the normalisation of gambling as just a bit of ‘harmless fun.’ We want to see stronger restrictions on gambling advertising to protect people from harm. We hope the health warnings and signposting in these new guidelines will ensure that people are clear about the risks of gambling and where to go for help and support should they need it.”
Industry Response and Future Implications
The Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) has defended the “Take Time To Think” campaign, arguing that it was developed through extensive customer research and engagement with various stakeholders, including the government and academics. The BGC believes that this slogan effectively promotes responsible betting, and any changes proposed by GambleAware could lead to unnecessary conflicts within the industry. Despite GambleAware’s criticism, the BGC stands by the slogan, citing its approval through consultations and research. The campaign slogan is likely to be high profile at the best Euros Betting sites.
However, the push for more stringent advertising guidelines and health warnings has sparked a broader debate about the gambling industry’s role in public health. Critics argue that the industry’s voluntary funding model for GambleAware compromises the charity’s independence, potentially influencing its advocacy and research. The Conservative government’s proposal to replace this voluntary system with a statutory levy aims to secure more funds for research, education, and treatment, but its future remains uncertain.
Industry backed health measures are designed to fail:
❌ Bet Regret launched in 2019 costing £5m+ in its first year❗️ (📸⬇️)
❌ BGC members fund & control the newer Take Time to Think campaign
❌ GambleAware regularly receives regulatory settlements (£8.8m in 2020)#SGWeek22 pic.twitter.com/jakIB5el0x
— JFC (@FairandOpen) October 11, 2022
Potential Impact of Upcoming Elections
The upcoming general election adds another layer of uncertainty. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to call a summer election has put the gambling reform white paper, which includes the proposed statutory levy, in a state of limbo.
Labour has not yet confirmed whether it would implement the levy if it wins the general election. This political backdrop could significantly impact the future of gambling regulations and the effectiveness of campaigns like “Take Time To Think” in promoting responsible gambling.
