Key Moments:
- Bacta has introduced a new Self-Exclusion Plan targeting higher standards in response to recent negative media coverage.
- The initiative was shaped following discussions at the National Council and input from member support officers.
- The plan mandates annual staff training, clearer venue messaging, governance improvements, and investment in a unified national scheme.
Sector Responds to Scrutiny
Bacta has taken swift steps to address concerns raised by negative media attention regarding the operation of self-exclusion programs in UK Adult Gaming Centers (AGCs). The association’s leadership announced the implementation of a new Self-Exclusion Plan after conversations at the National Council and with member support officers.
Leadership’s Commitment to Player Safety
President Joseph Cullis emphasized the urgency of these measures due to recent media reports and feedback from both the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Gambling Commission. “We are taking these steps because recent media coverage and feedback from both DCMS and the Gambling Commission have made clear that standards across the sector have not always been as strong or consistent as they must be.
“By acting now, we show that Bacta members take player protection seriously, are prepared to lead on reform and can deliver improvements voluntarily rather than wait for further regulation to be imposed.
“This is about reinforcing trust, supporting our members and ensuring our sector is a credible voice on social responsibility.”
Details of the New Self-Exclusion Plan
The newly agreed Self-Exclusion Plan introduces several core components aimed at bolstering player protection and responsible gaming measures. These include:
- Mandatory induction and annual refresher training for all front-line staff
- Improved self-exclusion signage and messaging within venues and on gaming machines
- Implementation of a player confirmation prompt on compatible B3 machines
- Strengthened governance and compliance checks conducted by member support officers
- Investment in advanced technology, including the development of a unified national scheme for operators
Overview of Key Plan Components
| Plan Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Staff Training | Mandatory induction and annual refresher courses for front-line personnel |
| Signage and Messaging | Clearer self-exclusion information in venues and on machines |
| Player Confirmation | Exploratory prompts on compatible B3 gaming machines |
| Governance and Compliance | Enhanced oversight by member support officers |
| Technology Investment | Unified national self-exclusion scheme for operators |
- Author
Daniel Williams
