Wellbeing in the iGaming industry. How companies support the mental and physical health of employees?
The iGaming industry is becoming increasingly aware of the necessity to care for the health and well-being of its employees. Companies in this sector, such as IGT, Entain, Flutter, Kindred, Playtech, RubyPlay, Statscore, Evoke, FEG, FDJ and Superbet are undertaking a range of initiatives to promote employee wellbeing, creating an environment for personal growth and ensuring a balance between work and private life. In this article, we will explore the specific actions these companies are taking to provide sustainable development for their employees.
IGT
International Game Technology (IGT) has been consistently promoting diversity and inclusion for years, as evidenced by numerous awards, including the “Diversity and Inclusion” award at the 2023 Women in Gaming Diversity & Employee Wellbeing Awards. The company launched these efforts in 2018 by creating the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which introduced systems to support management and employees worldwide.
IGT promotes equality in employment and non-discrimination, with a focus on more inclusive recruitment processes. IGT employees can join employee networks structured around underrepresented dimensions of diversity, such as:
- Women’s Inclusion Network (WIN) – women in the organization;
- PRIDE – LGBTQ+ employees;
- ACE – African heritage employees;
- Wealth of Wisdom – employees aged 50 and above;
- NEXGEN – millennial and Gen Z employees.
The company regularly conducts training to promote engagement in diversity issues and provides numerous benefits for same-sex partners. Through this proactive approach, IGT creates a work environment that fosters inclusion and supports employees at every stage of their careers.
Entain
Entain strives to create a workplace where physical, mental, and emotional health are top priorities. The Well-me program consists of three main pillars: “Live-Well,” “Think-Well,” and “Work-Well,” each addressing specific employee needs.
- Live-Well focuses on physical health by offering educational programs and support in areas such as diet, physical fitness, and work-life balance. The company adapts global and local initiatives to meet the needs of its employees, providing access to nutritionists and personal trainers.
- Think-Well concentrates on mental and emotional health, offering support on three levels: for employees thriving, facing difficulties, and those who are ill or absent. Employees have 24/7 access to psychological support through an employee assistance program and the Unmind platform, which helps employees develop techniques to manage stress and anxiety.
- Work-Well focuses on workplace health, with flexible work options and improved office conditions. The “Future of the Office” program implements hybrid work models, offering employees more flexible and collaborative spaces.
Entain actively promotes mental health, fostering a culture of open dialogue on the subject and regularly organizing training on stress management and burnout prevention.
Flutter Entertainment
Flutter has set an ambitious goal of creating a fully diverse and inclusive workforce by 2030. The “Work Better” initiative aims to eliminate barriers and build a workplace that fosters diversity and inclusion.Flutter is guided by the principles: “everyone is welcome and every voice matters.” The company’s success depends on its people, which is why the iGaming giant strives to create a safe, supportive culture where everyone can thrive.
Currently, 35.7% of women hold leadership positions at Flutter. The company aims to increase the percentage to 40% by 2026. Flutter also promotes LGBTQIA+ employee rights by actively creating a safe environment where all employees can be themselves. Additionally, the company highlights the importance of multiculturalism and works to combat racism and stereotypes, fostering a space for open and respectful teams. To promote this culture, the company organizes awareness campaigns, support networks, and events that celebrate diversity within the workplace.
As part of its broader wellbeing strategy, Flutter recognizes the importance of work-life balance in maintaining employee satisfaction and mental health. The company offers flexible working hours and hybrid work options, allowing employees to tailor their schedules in a way that suits their personal and professional needs.
Launched in September 2022, the Global Advocacy Program plays a pivotal role in advancing Flutter’s mission to better understand the life experiences of its colleagues. Supported by Executive Committee (ExCo) Advocates, the program ensures that employee voices are heard at the highest levels of the company, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic workplace.
Kindred
Kindred has long prioritized the wellbeing of its employees, earning recognition in the industry for its initiatives, including the Excellence in Wellbeing award. The company invests heavily in building mental resilience, considering it a key element in coping with both professional and personal challenges.
In the past year, Kindred increased the number of mental health first aiders. The company also launched the Kindred Hive program, which promotes good habits in physical and mental health and provides support through sports competitions and mindfulness programs. Employees have the opportunity to participate in training focused on managing mental health and preventing burnout. These programmes are not only for individual employees, but also for managers, equipping them with the skills to support the mental health of their teams.
Kindred has launched a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training program to enhance the mental wellbeing of its employees. This training teaches participants how to recognize and support colleagues who may be experiencing mental health challenges. A Mental Health First Aider can assist by listening, providing reassurance, or recommending that the employee seek professional help. Over the years, Kindred has provided this essential training to 70 employees worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a supportive and mentally healthy workplace environment.
Playtech
Playtech promotes responsible business practices that emphasize employee wellbeing and development. The company has implemented the Global People Framework, which supports the personal and professional growth of every employee. These frameworks include mentoring and training in mental health, diversity, and inclusion.
One of the key elements of Playtech’s strategy is the mentoring program, which connects experienced leaders with less-experienced employees, enabling them to develop within the company. The program also includes performance and talent management initiatives aimed at the long-term development of employees.
The company also supports wellbeing by promoting a culture of openness, allowing employees to anonymously report workplace concerns through the independent Speak Up hotline.
On the very first day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Playtech stepped in to assist the war-stricken country. The company offered support to its employees based in Kyiv, as well as to those affected by the military actions.
Playtech organized initial deliveries of food, water, medicine, as well as medical and psychological assistance for people impacted by the war. Additionally, the gambling industry giant established a 24-hour hotline for its Kyiv-based employees and provided support for their relocation to safer areas.
During the first two months of the war, Playtech coordinated the transfer of eight tons of medical aid and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, through its collaboration with Sarel Logistics Solutions & Products for Advanced Medicine, four tons of medical supplies were purchased and delivered directly to Ukrainian hospitals.
Playtech continued its efforts to support Ukraine. These initiatives focused primarily on delivering food to areas where active fighting was taking place. Within a month, the group managed to provide Ukrainian residents with 6,000 meat portions, 10,800 servings of baby food and powdered milk, and 38,000 diapers. Additionally, the company delivered a fully equipped ambulance to the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
RubyPlay
RubyPlay stands out in the iGaming industry not only for its flexible work policies but also for its comprehensive wellbeing initiatives. Employees are allowed to work from anywhere, with working hours tailored to individual needs.
The company prides itself on having a friendly and international team, hiring not only skilled professionals but also open-minded, positive individuals who combine a passion for work with building strong relationships. RubyPlay emphasizes professional development by organizing regular feedback sessions between employees, quarterly reviews, and annual performance assessments to help each team member achieve their goals.
In addition, RubyPlay offers English language classes with native speakers, catering to various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. This initiative ensures employees can grow their communication skills in a supportive environment. The company also provides all the necessary IT equipment, including laptops, headphones, keyboards, and more, to create a comfortable and productive home office setup.
Further supporting personal growth, RubyPlay offers employees one day per month dedicated to personal development, allowing them to invest in their career progression. To enhance overall wellbeing, the company provides a wellness budget for every employee or consultant who successfully completes their probationary period, empowering them to engage in initiatives that support their mental and physical health.
Despite working remotely, RubyPlay values team bonding and frequently organizes team-building activities. Whether it’s a beach BBQ or attending a cultural event, the company ensures that its employees have opportunities to create lasting memories and enjoy themselves, strengthening team cohesion and camaraderie.
Statscore
Wellbeing is a top priority at Statscore, where employees benefit from a variety of initiatives focused on health and development. The company fosters a relaxed, non-corporate culture with no dress code, creating a welcoming and friendly work environment. Personal growth is actively supported through training programs, English lessons, and access to the company library, helping employees set and reach their professional goals.
Health-related benefits include life insurance, medical care, and fresh fruit and drinks in the office. Employees are also provided with a Food Card to encourage healthy eating. Physical and mental wellness is further promoted through a MultiSport card, offering access to various sports activities.
Employees have access to a recreation area where they can relax and take a break from daily tasks. The area includes a pool table, foosball, darts, and board games. For video game enthusiasts, a game console is available, and additional comfort is provided by swings. For added comfort, swings are available for employees to relax and recharge during breaks.
To foster team integration, the company organizes team-building trips, company picnics, and “happy hours,” creating opportunities for employees to socialize and strengthen their bonds. New employees are warmly welcomed through a stress-free induction process, including a Work Buddy system, a welcome pack and all the necessary equipment to ensure a smooth start.
Statscore demonstrates its social responsibility by providing family-related bonuses, such as child and wedding bonuses, reinforcing a supportive environment for employees and their families. Furthermore, employees can participate in the Statscore Volunteer Program, dedicating one day each quarter to support a local charity.
Evoke
Evoke has taken significant steps to enhance the wellbeing of its employees by implementing a comprehensive approach that empowers individuals to better understand and improve their mental and physical health. Recognizing the importance of a supportive work environment, the company has introduced a variety of tools and resources designed to help employees manage their wellbeing on a daily basis. These tools provide guidance on healthy habits, stress management, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, ensuring that employees have access to the knowledge and support they need to thrive both in and outside of the workplace.
A key element of Evoke’s wellbeing strategy is its collaboration with leaders and managers to create a work environment where mental and physical health are prioritized. By fostering a culture of awareness and understanding among leadership, Evoke ensures that managers are equipped to support their teams, identify early signs of stress or burnout, and offer the necessary resources to help employees navigate challenges. This focus on leadership involvement is essential for creating a ripple effect throughout the organization, where the importance of health and wellbeing is reflected at every level.
In addition, Evoke is committed to cultivating a culture of openness and trust, where employees feel safe to share their concerns and seek support without fear of judgment or stigma. The company actively promotes an environment where discussions about mental health and personal challenges are normalized, encouraging employees to speak up and access support systems when needed. This approach not only strengthens the overall wellbeing of the workforce but also contributes to a more engaged and cohesive team, as employees feel valued and understood on a personal level.
By prioritizing mental and physical health and building a strong foundation of trust and support, Evoke is not only addressing the immediate needs of its employees but also laying the groundwork for long-term wellbeing and job satisfaction. This holistic approach helps to create a workplace where individuals can flourish and maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.
FEG
Fortuna Entertainment Group (FEG) places a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing and inclusivity, guided by its “zero discrimination” employment policy. This ensures that every individual is valued for their unique skills and contributions, creating a respectful and supportive work environment. FEG fosters a friendly atmosphere where openness, respect, and kindness are prioritized, helping to build strong connections among team members.
The company offers a broad range of benefits aimed at promoting both personal and professional development. These include a hybrid work model, which allows employees to balance their professional and personal responsibilities, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. FEG understands the importance of flexibility and offers hybrid solutions to help employees manage their time effectively.
In addition to flexible work options, FEG provides annual bonuses and sports benefits. Employees have access to gyms and fitness classes at various office locations, encouraging a healthy lifestyle.
To further support growth, FEG offers individualized development plans. These personalized programs enable employees to unlock their full potential by participating in workshops and courses, receiving continuous feedback, and benefiting from mentorship.
FDJ
FDJ is dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace, with a strong focus on social equality and anti-discrimination. The company holds two certifications from AFNOR: the Diversity Certification (since 2013) and the Gender Equality in the Workplace Certification (since 2017).
To promote socioeconomic diversity, FDJ works with local schools to increase the representation of employees from underprivileged urban areas by offering internships and work opportunities. The company also champions gender equality through recruitment, training, career development, and pay equity initiatives. Its All’In network, established in 2017, supports women’s leadership development and challenges workplace stereotypes.
FDJ actively supports employees with disabilities by providing the necessary equipment and assistance to help them thrive. In 2019, the company signed the “Manifesto for the Inclusion of Disabled People in Economic Life” to increase employment opportunities for disabled individuals.
Additionally, FDJ encourages intergenerational cooperation, supporting both younger employees through internships and older employees with career extension plans and retirement preparation.
The company is also a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, ensuring equal treatment regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In 2023, FDJ signed the LGBT+ Charter and supports its LGBTQ+ employees through the All’Proud network, reinforcing its commitment to an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Superbet
Superbet, like other leading companies in the iGaming industry, undertakes numerous initiatives aimed at supporting the wellbeing of its employees, both mentally and physically. The company understands that taking care of employees’ health and balance is key to their efficiency and long-term job satisfaction. As part of its wellbeing strategy, Superbet has introduced programs and initiatives that support employees on various levels – from flexible time management to psychological support and health-related initiatives.
One of the key elements of the wellbeing program at Superbet is offering flexible working hours, which enables employees to better manage their professional responsibilities and personal lives. Employees also have the option to work in a hybrid model, providing them with more freedom and better alignment of their work schedule with personal needs. These types of initiatives promote a balance between personal and professional life, which, in the long run, positively affects the team’s efficiency and engagement.
Superbet also places significant emphasis on the personal and professional development of its employees, offering numerous training sessions, mentoring, and career development programs. The company regularly organizes team-building events, which strengthen bonds within the team and foster a friendly working atmosphere.
During Euro 2024, the company shared that its employees had the opportunity to attend the Round of 16 match between Romania and the Netherlands in Munich. This is just one of many initiatives organized by the operator for Superbetters, who also have the chance to participate in other events such as SuperLiga matches, the Grand Chess Tour, and music festivals.
At the beginning of September this year, as part of Superbet Poland’s tradition, 30 employees took part in the charitable running initiative – Poland Business Run. It was the third time that the Polish team participated in this event, with a total of 60 people having taken part across three editions: in Warsaw, Katowice, and this year, also in Romania. It was not only an opportunity to support important causes but also an excellent way to integrate employees and spend valuable time together.
Moreover, this year, the kilometers run had a real impact on helping people with disabilities and women recovering after a mastectomy. In this way, Superbet not only supported others but also promoted among its employees the awareness of teamwork. Together, much more can be achieved than individually.
Through these efforts, Superbet creates an environment where employees build relationships with a healthy work-life balance, which directly contributes to their satisfaction and productivity.
Mental Health Week is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the iGaming companies’ commitment to wellbeing. Each of these companies, in their own way, prioritizes the health and development of their employees by offering a range of initiatives that foster a healthy, balanced work environment. The long-term benefits of these efforts not only improve employee wellbeing but also lead to increased productivity and success for the companies in the market.
