UKGC Enforces Strict Annual Donation Program For Licenced Operators In 2020

As of the beginning of 2020, the UK Gambling Commission has begun enforcing a strict annual charitable donation policy in support of local Responsible Gambling programs.

The official Gambling Commission website says:

“From 1 January 2020 operators must direct their annual financial contribution for gambling research, prevention and treatment as required by LCCP SR code 3.1.1 to one or more of the organisations on the list”

The program endorsed by the Gambling Commission are:

• GambleAware - Research, Prevention & Treatment 
• GamCare - Prevention & Treatment 
• Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) - Prevention

As you can see from the listed information of each of the currently endorsed programs they cover three areas of vital importance to the Commission – Research into the impact of gambling addiction, the Prevention of addictive behaviour in youth and adults, and the Treatment and support of those negatively impacted by addictive behaviour.

 Gambling Operator Responsibilities

In their post on the topic the Commission clearly outlines 4 areas of responsibility that licenced gambling operators must adhere too as part of this new initiative:

1. Financial contribution must be made to cover each of the three areas: research, prevention and treatment
2. Qualifying donations must be made to one or more of the approved bodies
3. Ensure that the operator has no business or personal connection to the recipient of their donation
4. The operator must provide the Commission and their recognised entities with all necessary reporting showing clear and accurate tracking of donations including amounts, dates and destinations with no duplication or errors.

These donations are not the only donations operators are encouraged to make however they are the only donations that will be considered in terms of an LCCP RET audit which covers the operators legally required support of  'research into the prevention and treatment of gambling-related harm'.

 Getting On The List

While the Gambling Commission has launched this strict initiative by highlighting GambleAware, GamCare and YGAM this is only their opening gambit. They have opened up the floor to applications for inclusion to any charity operating in the area of research, treatment and prevention of gambling addiction.

The organisation need only apply via the Gambling Commission’s website and if they are deemed a suitable partner, they will be included in the list of charities able to receive RET contributions. The application and approval process is free of charge allowing charities of any size to apply.