UKGC roll out new consumer conversation initiative

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has launched a new initiative in an effort to allow consumers and bodies that represent consumers to help shape how the national governing body works. The two-way conversation aims to communicate with consumers who gamble or have an interest in gambling. Sarah Harrison, chief executive of the UKGC, said the initiative will be based on three themes: increasing transparency and clarity, being more responsive and working in partnerships. “We want gambling companies to do much more to put consumers at the heart of the businesses – we’re doing this via the regulations that we set and the way in which we go about enforcing them,” Harrison said. “But we know we also have to do more ourselves to tap into consumer concerns, understand consumer interests and communicate better with consumers – that’s consumers who enjoy gambling, as well as those for whom it may become a real problem.” Dirk Hansen, chief executive at problem gambling organisation GamCare, added: “It’s great to see that the Commission is further developing their views in order to fully appreciate how gambling affects consumers. “As a provider of support services to individuals harmed by gambling, we welcome this level of interest both in obtaining information on consumer behaviour, and in reaching out directly to consumers to obtain their perspective.” Related article: UKGC confirms Moyes as new chair