Safer Gambling Week 2023 is an annual initiative that promotes responsible betting in the industry. It is jointly organized by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta), and the Bingo Association. The seventh edition of Safer Gambling Week 2023 will take place from 13-19 November, covering both land-based and online markets.
The goal of this initiative is to encourage safer gambling habits among players. Last year, during Safer Gambling Week, 200,000 accounts set deposit limits, marking a 12.5% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, 61% of players set deposit limits for the first time. Moreover, the use of reality checks by players increased by 300% year-on-year. Social media engagement also grew, with nearly 30 million impressions, a 21% rise from the previous year.
BGC chief executive Michael Dugher expressed the importance of Safer Gambling Week in promoting safer gambling tools and providing support to those in need. The event has gained support from various industry stakeholders, government officials, and beyond. Gambling minister Stuart Andrew acknowledged the initiative for increasing awareness and uptake of safer gambling tools. Gambling Commission chief executive Andrew Rhodes stressed the significance of safety in all gambling activities.
One participating operator, Betfred, has partnered with creative and production agency Zút to launch a new safer gambling campaign. The campaign, titled “How Do You Keep It Fun?”, encourages players to actively ensure the safety of their betting habits. The four-ad series highlights healthy habits such as setting personal limits and limiting gaming session time. Betfred’s CEO, Joanne Whittaker, emphasized the importance of safer gambling to their business and praised the partnership with Zút.
