GamCare Conference 2012: The Need for Central Self-Exclusion Schemes in the UK

BetBuddy co-founder presents research exploring multi-operator self-exclusion possibilities.

Categories

Simo Dragicevic, co-founder of BetBuddy, presents the case for implementing multi-operator self-exclusion in the UK gambling industry. The panel explores regulatory gaps, technological challenges, and the potential for industry-wide collaboration to better protect at-risk players.

Key Insights:

• The Problem:
  Current self-exclusion systems are operator-specific, leaving gaps that allow excluded players to continue gambling elsewhere. This undermines the effectiveness of harm prevention.
• The Proposal:
  Multi-operator self-exclusion would allow players to exclude themselves from multiple gambling sites at once. This approach is already adopted in jurisdictions like Denmark and Spain and recommended by the UK DCMS Select Committee.
• Research Findings:
  A collaborative study with GamCare and the University of Salford found strong support for the concept among stakeholders and players. It’s scalable, cost-effective, and aligns with existing UK codes of practice.
• Challenges & Solutions:
  While technical and operational hurdles exist (e.g. data sharing, infrastructure), they are surmountable with industry and regulator cooperation. The solution could be hosted centrally or via secure cloud platforms.
• Industry Reception:
  Most operators support the idea in principle but face resource constraints. A regulatory nudge may be needed to prioritize implementation.
• Real-World Testimony:
  A recovering problem gambler shared the difficulties of self-excluding from multiple land-based venues, highlighting the need for centralized systems and early intervention tools.
• Technology Fit:
  BetBuddy’s platform is better suited to online environments but can support land-based operators through secure data portals. Facial recognition and player tracking are emerging tools in jurisdictions like Ontario.

Given global best practices, technological readiness, and the importance of consumer protection, the industry has no excuse not to trial multi-operator self-exclusion. A pilot project is recommended, with potential for national rollout if successful.