Date: 23.01.2025

by Adam Dworak

GambleAware Calls for Stricter Regulations After New Study

A recent study reveals that land-based slots present a greater risk of gambling harm than online casino games, with loot boxes also flagged as potentially harmful. The research, conducted by Bournemouth University, suggests a need to re-evaluate current gambling regulations.

GambleAware Releases Data Maps Revealing Gambling Harms in Great Britain

Land-Based Machines and Problem Gambling

The study indicated that land-based electronic gaming machines in bookmakers and casinos are a significant predictor of gambling harm.

Individuals using these machines are over ten times more likely to experience problem gambling compared to the average person.

This contrasts with online casino users, who are four times more likely to face similar issues. These findings highlight the need for stricter regulations on land-based gambling venues.

Loot Boxes and National Lottery Risks

The research also examined the risks associated with loot boxes in video games, finding that 50% of users are at some level of risk.

Furthermore, approximately 600,000 National Lottery customers are estimated to experience problem gambling.

These figures underscore the widespread nature of gambling-related harm across different platforms and activities.

Call for Regulatory Changes

GambleAware is advocating for a revision of measures introduced following the UK government’s gambling white paper.

The charity proposes that online stake limits should be the same for all adults, regardless of age, and that restrictions are needed on the availability and design of land-based electronic gaming machines.

They also urge gambling operators to develop personalized support for online customers showing risk indicators.

According to Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware:

 “No form of gambling is completely without risk. However this new research shows that there are some particular types of gambling which can lead to an increased chance of experiencing gambling harm, which can have a corrosive effect on people’s lives, finances, careers and relationships.”

Need for Stricter Regulation

The study’s findings call for more stringent gambling regulation, particularly for online slots and land-based electronic gaming machines. Dr Ruijie Wang of Bournemouth University stated:

“The results highlight the need for more stringent gambling regulation, particularly in online slots and land-based electronic gaming machines due to their high risk of harm to young adults. More regulation is also needed to limit gambling-like practices in video gaming, such as loot boxes, to individuals aged over 18 years as the interaction between video gaming and gambling should not be ignored.”

The report also recommends that the National Lottery should signpost support services such as GambleAware.