Gamcare held their Annual Conference in London on the 19th October, where leading gambling organisations such as ‘Online Gambling Industry’ and ‘Remote Gambling Association’ declared the 19th 0ctober 2009 ‘Responsible Gambling Awareness Day’. The intention of the day is to highlight the importance of gambling responsibly and raise the profile of the help services available.
With the support of many online gaming providers including sports betting websites, bingo brands and online casinos, the awareness day was an important day for the industry as a whole.
Gerry Sutcliffe, Minister for Sport in the United Kingdom, congratulated Gamcare for holding a Responsible Gambling Awareness Day. “I am really pleased that the industry is holding a Responsible Gambling Awareness Day. This is a fantastic idea and shows how the industry is taking initiative to promote responsible gambling and the importance of funding the treatment of problem gambling. I am sure the day will help raise awareness and spread this message to consumers and operators, and I hope to see the event return next year.”
Gamcare also revealed, world boxing champion, Chris Eubank as the first ambassador of the organisation. Having recovered from a serious gambling addiction Eubank is an inspirational figurehead for the organisation. “We are really pleased to welcome Chris on board. He has been to our offices to find out what we do at first hand, and he was visibly moved by some of the cases we described for him. HelpLine and Counselling staff were impressed by both his interest and understanding, and his keenness to get involved.”- Anthony Jennens, Gamcare Chairman.
Mark Davies also took to the stage representing sports betting site Betfair, “For the small minority of people who may need to seek help at any point in their lives we make sure that they have the tools, advice and support they need to overcome a problem gambling issue.”
The day ended with the unveiling of a 5 minute video which helped to raise awareness, highlight how important responsible gambling is, and also explain how technology has developed to help prevent underage gamblers and protect online gamblers displaying problem symptoms. Clive Hawkswood, CEO of the RGA, added “We hope our five minute tutorial will provide (lawmakers) with a quick insight into how operators ensure that for the vast majority, gambling remains a safe and harmless leisure activity.”
By Hollie Wilcox
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