New list of changes
The British Gambling Commission has published a list of changes it will make to its license conditions and codes of practice (LCCP). This is intended to help protect gamblers and make the practice safer and fairer for players.
The new set of rules are set to raise standards for the alternative dispute resolution program that is already in place. It will also boost the number of requirements licensees will face when interacting with clients, particularly when identifying who may be at risk of or currently experiencing problem gambling.
The new set of rules are set to raise standards for the alternative dispute resolution program.
The rules will also allow for better funding of research, prevention, and treatment of gambling addiction.
Gradual introduction
The latest changes come after an open consultation, and will be introduced gradually with the first set of new rules due to be introduced in October 2019. They will apply to all licenses except those for gaming machines and software licenses.
Gambling operators will now be required to use only alternative dispute resolution services that meet the Commission’s new additional standards, on top of the current rules and regulations. This will ensure that alternative dispute resolution companies provide consistent customer service, decision-making, and governance for customers who have to turn to their services.
Changes to consumer experience
The changes will affect how customers interact with operators. Providers will now need to focus more on the outcome of identifying and dealing with players who exhibit signs of developing a gambling problem and the associated risks.
They will also be required to assess the impact that an interaction has on a customer, as well as the effectiveness of their overall approach to problem gamblers.
Further new rules will come into effect in January 2020. They will ensure that funds contributed by operators in the gambling industry are targeted to help deliver the Commission’s National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms in Britain.
Donated funds
The regulator has announced it will release a list of charities and other bodies that operators can donate funds to as part of the new rule. Paul Hope, the Commission’s executive director, said:
These changes have been designed to make gambling fairer and safer for consumers.”
The Commission also expects gambling firms to meet their responsibilities and comply with the new rules.