UK Gamblers Facing Strict Playing Limits at Online Casinos

Article by : Erik Gibbs Feb 26, 2024

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The government is implementing new regulations to address excessive gambling risks, restricting online slot bets for those under 25 to £2 ($2.54) per spin starting in September.

Simultaneously, individuals 25 and older will face a £5 ($6.35) stake cap to mitigate potential significant harm from online slots, according to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Presently, there are no constraints on stakes for online slots.

These measures follow a 2019 reduction in stakes for equivalent machines in betting shops, termed fixed-odds betting terminals, from £100 ($126.98) to £2 ($2.54).

Described as a “landmark moment” by the DCMS, this signifies a substantial advancement in online gambling regulation. The decision is motivated by the recognition that easily accessible online slot games are highly addictive and linked to financial losses and extended gaming sessions.

Insights from a consultation on the government’s gambling White Paper emphasized the addictive nature of online slots, prompting the need for strict regulatory measures.

Evidence from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities highlighted the vulnerability of individuals under 25 to gambling-related harm, emphasizing the necessity for targeted protective measures.

NHS survey data reveals a notable 8.7% problem gambling rate specifically associated with online slots, casinos, or bingo games, making it one of the highest rates observed in various gambling activities.

For young adults, factors such as limited disposable income, ongoing neurological development influencing risk perception, and common life-stage challenges like managing finances for the first time contribute to their vulnerability, as highlighted by the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS).

Crucially, the evidence underscores a pronounced correlation between gambling-related harm and suicide, particularly among young adults.

Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew acknowledged that while millions engage in safe gambling daily, there is a significantly higher problem gambling rate for online slot games, with young adults being particularly susceptible to associated harms.

Addressing these concerns was a commitment outlined in the government’s White Paper.

Zoe Osmond, CEO of gambling charity GambleAware, expressed support for the government’s decision to introduce lower online stake limits for those under 25, emphasizing its importance in shielding young people.

Nevertheless, some campaigners consider these limits a “missed opportunity,” advocating for a universal maximum of £2 ($2.54) or less.

Charles Ritchie, co-founder of Gambling with Lives, acknowledged the positive step of a £2 ($2.54) limit for under-25s but lamented the decision for over-25s, asserting that a £5 ($6.35) cap represents a missed opportunity to prevent widespread harm and the tragic consequences of gambling-related suicides.