The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) is launching a Code Handbook for operators that includes 20 codes and 100 measures aimed at creating a safer environment for players. Released as part of the BGC’s fifth anniversary, the Handbook brings together every voluntary measure the group’s members commit to in their efforts to raise standards industry wide.
One of the core components of the Handbook, and the BGC as a whole, is creating a safer play environment. In practical terms, this means that BGC members commit to very specific practices. One such measure is a commitment to making 20 percent of the top imagery on slot machines messaging about problem gambling.
The concepts outlined in the Handbook are generally measures that are already in practice, especially those surrounding advertising. BGC members go above-and-beyond regulations in instances such as whistle-to-whistle ban on advertising during sporting events that are aired before 9 p.m. BGC officials say that this practice alone has led to the number of gambling ads seen by children dropping by 97 percent.
Betting and Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst praised the handbook launch in a recent press release saying, “I am delighted to announce this new Code Handbook, which comprises over five years of determined work to raise standards, across the board.
“It is also entirely fitting that we publish this landmark new Code Handbook on our fifth anniversary. The BGC was founded as the industry’s standards body, and this Handbook draws together our sector’s combined efforts, under the leadership of the BGC, to raise standards on safer gambling in the UK.”
Participation in the BGC is entirely voluntary and the group represents 90 percent of the country’s regulated gaming sector.