Preaching to the converted

Britain’s Responsible Gambling Trust has confirmed in its latest survey that there is wide consensus among online and land gambling operators on the priorities for self- exclusion as a harm minimisation tool.

The study identified specific elements in self-exclusion which are already familiar to most online operators, namely:

* Self-exclusion applications should be irrevocable during the period set (usually a minimum of six months);

* Information-sharing among operators and suppliers could be improved;

* Relevant training for front-line managers and staff is essential;

* Precautions must be taken to avoid marketing to individuals who have self-excluded.

RGT chief executive Marc Etches notes that technology will help to enforce self-exclusion in the future.

“This project shows that the gambling industry has the appetite to look at itself and ask what more it can do to improve the way it looks after problem gamblers,” he said.

“The industry now needs to develop the technology needed to enforce self-exclusion, look into what legal restrictions there may be, and better understand the most effective methods of self-exclusion.

“We have identified these areas as research priorities and it is for the gambling industry to show their continued commitment by implementing the highest standards in their respective codes of conduct.”

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