Andy Boucher Appointed as New Chair of GambleAware
GambleAware, the UK’s independent gambling harms charity, has named Andy Boucher as its new chair of trustees, effective 1 April. Boucher succeeds Siân Griffiths, who is stepping down after less than a year in the role to retire.
A New Leader with a Broad Background
Boucher has been a trustee of GambleAware since December 2023 and has also served as the charity’s deputy chair. Outside the gambling sector, he holds key positions in various social impact organizations, including Business in the Community and the Social Mobility Business Partnership. He is also chair of Sir George Monoux Sixth Form College and vice chair of Making the Leap, a charity focused on social mobility.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Boucher expressed his commitment to strengthening GambleAware’s role in tackling gambling-related harm.
“It is a critical time to be taking on this role as chair of GambleAware. I am looking forward to leading the charity through this period of change. I am committed to ensuring the future gambling harms system builds on the success and expertise within the charity, which has been a driving force and leader in this space for many years”, he said.
Leadership Transition Coincides with New Levy
Boucher’s appointment comes as the UK prepares to implement a new statutory levy on gambling operators. Set to take effect from 6 April, the levy aims to raise £100 million annually for gambling harm prevention by allocating a percentage of industry profits to support public health initiatives.
Outgoing chair Siân Griffiths highlighted the significance of this development in her final remarks, emphasizing the importance of a well-funded, evidence-based approach to harm reduction.
“Gambling harms are a serious public health challenge, intertwined with inequalities and poverty. They occur across all walks of life and can affect anyone. By working in partnership with others and listening to the voice of the lived experience community, I hope an evidence-led, population-health approach, supported by appropriate statutory funding, will prevent and reduce harm for all those affected”, Griffiths said.