Between 13-19 November this year, Safer Gambling Week took place for its seventh year. The event, organised by the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC), the Bingo Association and BACTA, saw a significant increase in promotion across their website and social media.

Safer Gambling Week and social media

The goal of Safer Gambling Week is to bring the gambling industry together in one place and outline the support available to players. There are many resources available to provide advice and support to players to help them remain in control of gambling and promote safer gambling.

This year, the BCG recorded a 70% increase in the promotion of the event on social media. They found over 50 million social media impressions across Instagram, X, and Facebook (compared to 30 million in 2022). In addition, they reported that the Safer Gambling Week website received half a million visits during the event's week.

Increased support

The initiative also received support from MPs and football clubs. Among those who gave their backing were gambling minister Stuart Andrew MP, the Shadow Gambling Minister Stephanie Peacock MP, Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, and football clubs West Ham United, Brighton, Southampton, Middlesborough and Blackpool.

Michael Dugher, BGC Chief Executive, said: “It is proven that the success of the campaign leads to increased use of popular safer gambling tools – like time-outs and deposit limits – that only exist in the regulated industry.

“The record numbers for both impressions and website visits show that the industry has never been more committed to ensuring the many millions who enjoy a regular flutter continue to do so in a safe and responsible environment.”

He added: “Thanks to Safer Gambling Week, we can be confident millions of people are better informed about the ways they can enjoy their hobby even more safely and responsibly, that’s something the entire industry can be proud of.

“But the regulated industry’s commitment to safer gambling is not just for one week of the year. It is our mission for every week of the year.”

For more information, visit the Safer Gambling Week website. For help with gambling concerns, visit gamstop.co.uk or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133.