Gambling and Social Responsibility
Like many things, when done in moderation gambling can be fun and entertaining. But gambling is also one of those activities that can be addictive, and like alcoholism or smoking it can be destructive. It was not too long ago that betting companies and other gambling providers had no recognised or legal responsibility towards the care of those who gambled – be it online gambling, sports betting, bingo, casinos, etc. – but with the more recent, major deregulation of gambling in the UK, gambling providers now have a legal duty of care, or “Social Responsibility”, towards their customers.
Staff are now taught to look for certain signs that someone may have problems with gambling, and they are also coached on how to discreetly approach someone and let them know what their options are if they are having personal issues with gambling.
In any gambling location you will now see mandatory notices and literature about Social Responsibility. These are free to take and to look at, and they provide the gambler with useful information with regards to gambling and the risks. Customers have the option, if they feel it necessary, to self-exclude themselves from a gambling location for a period of six-months, which can be reviewed after this period ends and continued if need be. In addition to the help and information available from gambling locations and betting sites, gamblers can visit the GamCare site www.gamcare.com. GamCare provides information, advice, and support to anyone who thinks, or knows, they have a gambling problem.