BGC assumes control over The Senet Group.
The UK gambling sector's regulatory body, The Senet Group, will be replaced by the newly formed British gambling organization, BGC (The Betting and Gaming Council). BGC is an assembly of prominent betting providers and is dedicated to promoting player protection via the MOSES self-exclusion system. The system is set to be expanded throughout the entire industry.
Raising the bar
The Senet Group, established in 2014, has confirmed the transfer of all their assets and responsibilities to the BGC. The BGC, consisting of the RGA (Remote Gambling Association) and ABB (Association of British Bookmakers), will be an influential force in the UK gambling industry in terms of upholding the highest standards.
The takeover's primary objective is to enhance player protection across all platforms. The Senet Group had long been a champion of self-regulation in the gambling industry, led by the "Big 4" of the UK betting scene - Ladbrokes, William Hill, Betfred, and Paddy Power. The group spearheaded initiatives like the "When the FUN stops" campaign which advocated for a more robust self-regulatory framework.
Notably, the group played a significant role in the implementation of the so-called whistle-to-whistle advertising ban, preventing gambling ads during live sporting events.
MOSES self-exclusion system
One of the Senet Group's most promising initiatives is the MOSES (Multi Operator Self Exclusion Scheme). This scheme, designed for the retail sector, is now scheduled to be broadened by BGC. On par with GAMSTOP, the online self-exclusion system, MOSES will be continually upgraded and eventually become a UK licensing requirement.
Reacting to the takeover, the BGC's Chairperson, Brigid Simmonds, remarked, "We look forward to building on this work." She credited the group for their groundbreaking work in promoting a collaborative approach to player protection.
Safer Gambling Pledge
The roadmap towards upgraded standards was introduced in November 2019. Named the Safer Gambling Commitment, it features agreements between UK-licensed gambling groups such as Flutter Entertainment, GVC Holdings, Rank Group, and Playtech, vowing to intensify their efforts in providing a safer gambling environment.
The collaborative approach focused on five primary obligations: First, the prevention of underage gambling. Second, increased support for treating gambling-related problems. Third, enhanced advertising guidelines. Fourth, heightened self-regulation for customers. Fifth, fostering a culture of responsible gambling.
UKGC Report: Rising Problem Gamblers
The impetus for the initiatives came from a damning report issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) in October 2019. The report observed a decrease in the number of young people engaging in gambling activities between 2018 and 2019. However, it also revealed an alarming uptick in problem gambling cases. An estimated 55,000 minors exhibited potentially damaging gambling behaviors, with 1.7% of 11-16-year-olds impacted.
Gillian Wilmot, the Chair of the Senet Group, lauded the measurable progress, acknowledging that "enormous value" had been created. Wilmot supported the switch to the BGC, expressing her commitment to the sector's customer protection. "The collaborative ethos at the heart of the new Betting and Gaming Association provides the opportunity to pool our resources to deliver safer gambling initiatives at scale."
Future Enhancements
As the gambling sector grapples with the ongoing coronavirus crisis, the UKGC has underlined the need for maximum consumer protection across the board. There are plans to tighten the reins on VIP programs, introduce stricter age controls, and improve advertising guidelines. Additionally, the frequency of gambling sessions is set to be reduced with a minimum spin time of 2.5 seconds for all slot machines. Functions such as slam stops, turbo buttons, and split screens are slated for removal, as they could potentially induce intensive play and contribute to problem gambling.
The effects of these modifications remain to be seen. It's uncertain if the BGC will adhere to these proposals.
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Source: www.onlinecasinosdeutschland.com
