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The UK gambling industry has become bigger than ever, becoming a key part of the nation’s entertainment and financial sector. However, this unprecedented growth also comes with diverse issues like ethical standards, unsafe gaming practices, problem gambling, etc. That is why the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC)was set up and tasked with ensuring a safer, fairer, and more enjoyable gambling experience within the UK.
This article delves into BGC and its role in the United Kingdom’s gambling industry. We will explore the following points:
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) was established in 2019 through a merger of the Remote Gambling Association (RGA), the Association of British Bookmakers (ABB), and the National Casino Forum (NCF). Before the merger, RGA, which was also created from the combination of two different trade bodies, represented the interest of remote operators in the online gambling industry. Conversely, the ABB represented the bookmaker markets, while the NCF was responsible for land-based operators in the casino industry. These three organizations were the largest in their respective sectors and did many of the same things: promoting a safe, fair, and entertaining gambling industry.
As mentioned, BGC became a single organization with the mission of championing the cause of the gambling industry for both the operators and the customers. The body has three main aims to achieve its mission. The first aim
is to set and raise world-class standards across the betting and gaming industry, and the second
is to create a culture of safer gambling. As such, they have taken up the role of preventing underage gambling, increasing support for treatment of gambling harm, etc.
The third aim
of the Betting and Gaming Council organization is to help build public and institutional trust in the betting and gambling industry. They also safeguard and empower the customers, which is the key to a thriving sector. The Council does all these by acting as a forum that facilitates collaborations between stakeholders in the gambling industry.
Whether it is to raise ethical standards, create a safe and responsible gambling culture, or build public and institutional trust, BGC acts as the unified voice in the industry. As a result, the organization usually works alongside operators, regulators, and other stakeholders within the industry.
Aside from its members, the Council has partnered with many other industry stakeholders, such as the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), the nation’s gambling regulatory body. The pair work together to introduce strategies to aid in raising necessary standards within the industry and tackling the problem of gambling-related harm. They have partnered with agencies like Gamcare and the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM).
Additionally, BGC works with The Gambling Anti-Money Laundering Group (GAMLG) to help tighten the industry’s defense against money laundering. It also collaborates with the Industry Group for Responsible Gambling to ensure that all related advertisements are socially responsible. All members of the Council must adhere to the codes and aims of these organizations.
The industry players working together through BGC as their united voice has produced several impressive results in the gambling sector. You can find info on these results and the efforts in achieving them via the Betting and Gaming Council on Twitter and their other social media accounts.
Our industry is already donating millions to support frontline charities delivering research, education and treatment for problem gamblers. "Any new levy which replaces the current set-up must sustain this vital work, not undo it," says @brigidsimmonds.https://t.co/3PZKpDtOOl
— Betting and Gaming Council (@BetGameCouncil) November 3, 2023
Some of these include campaigns like the Whistle to Whistle advertisement ban during live sports, which has reduced the rate of gambling-related adverts seen by children. The introduction of the Safer Gambling Week campaign and various youth education programs have also helped in raising awareness of problem gambling and its harm.
Aside from being the leading voice in promoting standards and responsible betting and gambling in the industry, BGC also plays a significant role in the UK economy. Thanks to the commitments of its partners and members, the Council is responsible for various investments in jobs and growth within the nation, contributing to the public finances.
That said, there are still many other interesting BGC facts that you may not be aware of. We have compiled some of these below:
BGC has become a vital part of the gambling sector in the UK. The Council provides a forum that facilitates collaboration to aid in setting and raising standards, promoting safe and responsible gambling, and inspiring trust in the industry. By keeping customers first and uniting industry leaders and stakeholders, the BGC has launched various successful initiatives and campaigns over the years, and the Council is still working hard to create a safe and enjoyable gambling environment for all.
