Playtech partners with Responsible Gambling Council
The gambling technology giant said it would support the Responsible Gambling Council in examining the link between mental health, digital wellbeing and gambling “using a combination of thought leadership, research, and evaluation of initiatives”.
Playtech said the partnership was part of its strategy for sustainable growth, which included a “commitment to safer gambling”.
“The relationship with RGC forms part of Playtech’s efforts to partner with global leaders on research, education and technology initiatives as part of its sustainability and responsible business strategy, Sustainable Success,” it said.
Janine Robinson, director of the RGC’s centre for the advancement of best practices, said the partnership would offer an opportunity to push responsible gaming standards upwards.
“Playtech is an industry leader and we look forward to working together to influence positive change and advance responsible gambling standards,” Robinson said. “The impact of the digital world on mental health is a growing concern for many but one which is currently not particularly well understood.”
“We believe adopting digital resilience and safer gambling behaviours will be an important part of protecting mental health.”
The Responsible Gaming Council’s services include the RG plus advisory and consultancy programme, and last week was announced as a key part of the Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM)’s new training programme on gambling addictions for healthcare professionals.
Playtech interim chairman Claire Milne, who took over the role in April after Alan Jackson indicated he would not stand for re-election, said the collaboration would allow Playtech to put its technology, data and expertise to good use.
“The Responsible Gambling Council is a leader in research and best practice standards that drive the gambling sector to build a more sustainable and safe industry for the benefit of all stakeholders,” Milne said. “As part of our Sustainable Success strategy we aspire to develop meaningful partnerships that will advance the safer gambling agenda.
“This collaboration will aid us in fulfilling our duty and commitment to use our expertise, experience and technology to promote an industry which provides both an entertaining and safe environment that supports digital and mental wellbeing and resilience.”
In May, Playtech’s PT Entertainment Services (PTES) arm surrendered its GB B2C licence after the Gambling Commission uncovered serious failings within the business such as a lack of problem gambling safeguards for new customers and VIPs. This emerged in an investigation carried out in the wake of a customer’s suicide, which the regulator suggested was linked to problems with gambling.