Data reveals a record number of people are using safer gambling tools

The Betting and Gaming Council have revealed data that proves the 2024 Safer Gambling Week was their most successful yet. 

Results suggest that 1.5 million people used a safer gambling tool during Safer Gambling Week in 2024, an increase of 22% on the previous year's results. 

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In addition, the number of deposit limits set by players during the campaign increased by 14% compared to 2024, with 47% setting deposit limits for the first time. 

The week, which ran from November 18 to 24 last year, is an industry-wide campaign that encourages players to think about safer gambling and the tools available to them. 

The Betting and Gaming Council, who help organise the week, also revealed that more than 60 million impressions were recorded across social media websites including X, Facebook and Instagram. 

Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of The Betting and Gaming Council and a former Entain employee, said: “Safer Gambling Week has proved its worth once again by making a real impact, encouraging even more punters to make the most of the broad range of safer gambling tools only available in the regulated sector.

“These new figures are a testament to its ongoing success, and this industry’s commitment to raising standards and ensuring the millions of customers who enjoy a regular flutter, do so in a safe and responsible environment.

“Our members promote safer gambling every day of the year, but a single dedicated week, bringing together the whole sector with support from MPs, peers, the regulator and other stakeholders, promotes that work in a uniquely powerful way.”

During the week, 7.2 million safer gambling messages were sent to UK customers from across the industry. That number is a 10% increase on the 2023 equivalent. 

At the same time, the European Gaming and Betting Association achieved a record-breaking participation level. They sent 67 million safety messages across the week to customers in 26 countries. 

Maarten Haijer, EGBA general secretary, added: “The success of 2024’s edition reflects the sector’s deepening commitment to player protection. 

“The significant increase in participation, especially from health organisations and regulatory authorities, demonstrates the common purpose and growing unity in our approach to safer gambling. 

“Through this collaboration, we’ve reached a record number of Europeans with crucial safety messages during the campaign. Together, we’re making gambling safer and we already look forward to building on this success in 2025’s edition.” 

The aim of Safer Gambling Week, according to the BGC, is to kickstart a national conversation between staff, customers and their friends and family, about safer gambling, as well as highlight the range of tools that are available to help people stay in control of their betting.

Each month, 22.5 million people in Britain enjoy a bet of some kind. Whilst, according to a recent NHS survey, 0.4% of the adult population in this country are problem gamblers.