The Commission has opened a regulatory compliance case in response to a complaint about the links between YGAM and the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). However, both the Charities Commission and YGAM have clarified that this is not an investigation but a fact-finding exercise.
After reviewing YGAM’s response, the Commission has decided to close the case as there are no grounds for further investigation. YGAM expressed satisfaction with the swift conclusion, highlighting their productive engagement with the charities regulator and the opportunity to demonstrate their independence and strong governance.
The Commission assured YGAM that it is satisfied with the charity’s efforts to avoid conflicts of interest. They acknowledged YGAM’s explanation of its relationship with the Betting and Gaming Council, as well as the existence of a written agreement between the two organizations. The Commission also recognized that the charity has effective mechanisms in place to ensure independence and prevent conflicts of interest.
The specifics of the links being investigated were not disclosed by the Commission, but they may relate to a responsible gambling education program worth £10m, delivered by YGAM as part of their commitment to safer gambling. YGAM remains committed to increasing awareness of gambling-related harm and continuing their charitable objectives through their award-winning education programmes.
