A White paper has been published by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. According to the CEO of GambleAware, Zoe Osmond, this was a much-required step in order to be able to effectively tackle the multiple perils that are associated with gambling. In his opinion, this will be extremely beneficial for the millions of people who are being drawn into the online gambling arena and remain alienated from the various dangers till it becomes too late. He firmly believes that this kind of awareness program is the absolute need of the hour to prevent any further damage. Consumers should be protected at any cost.
GambleAware as an entity is completely supportive of the statutory levy that is being put in place in order to bring about certain controlling methods, as well as regulatory aspects. This will bring about clarity in terms of funding for activities like research, as well as education and treatment. In the case of the GambleAware commissioned National Support Network, which functions in tandem with the NHS, It is all an absolute necessity.
The National Gambling Support Network offers free backing, as well as treatment in the case of persons who go through gambling-based anxieties all over Great Britain. However, for this White Paper to be effective, it needs to be executed with immediate effect.
There is an urgent need to put certain relevant restrictions on promotional activities related to online gambling, especially for minors. According to data collected, 45% of minors associated with online gambling are in the age group of 11-17 years and are vulnerable to this kind of aggressive marketing that is so very prevalent.
On the whole, the fact cannot be ignored that online gambling is nothing short of a complete public health issue. Furthermore, it turns out to have a negative impact not only on individuals but also the entire families all throughout Great Britain. If not treated properly on an immediate basis, this would create a cascading effect on online gamblers. As per sources in GambleAware, the Gambling White Paper has come in the form of a true blessing.
