Health Warnings Urged for Gambling Ads: GambleAware Report

GambleAware advocates for clearer health warnings on gambling ads following a major research study highlighting inadequate safer gambling messaging. The study of over 7,000 people challenges the effectiveness of current industry slogans, prompting calls for improved warnings.

In response to the findings, GambleAware proposes replacing the industry’s slogan ‘Take Time To Think’ with more impactful health warnings, stressing the need for public protection, especially concerning children and young people. With an annual gambling marketing spend of £1.5 billion, the charity emphasizes the urgency for enhanced safeguards.

Alexia Clifford, Chief Communications Officer for GambleAware, emphasizes the seriousness of gambling harms as a public health issue, urging the industry to prioritize clearer messaging and better signposting for support channels. The research suggests three new health warnings, proven to be more effective in conveying the risks associated with gambling.

Dr. Raffaello Rossi, a lecturer in marketing at Bristol University and co-author of the research, underscores the importance of warnings that highlight the addictive nature of gambling and provide clear avenues for support. The report advocates for stricter regulation of gambling operators to ensure responsible advertising practices.

Moreover, the study reveals that including a separate GambleAware health warning at the end of gambling adverts significantly improves awareness of support services. These findings will inform new guidelines aimed at promoting safer gambling and preventing harm.

The report aligns with recent government responses, emphasizing the integration of public health messaging to mitigate harm effectively. It also builds upon previous research highlighting the normalization of gambling in children and young people’s online environments.

Sam Starsmore, who has experienced gambling harm firsthand, stresses the need for improved regulation and signposting in gambling advertising. Reflecting on personal experiences, Starsmore emphasizes the crucial role of clear messaging in directing individuals to support services.

If you or someone you know is concerned about gambling habits, support is available through GambleAware and the National Gambling Helpline. The comprehensive research, conducted independently and peer-reviewed, underscores the importance of evidence-based safer gambling messaging in preventing gambling harm.

About the Research:

• Commissioned by GambleAware, the research involved qualitative and quantitative phases, exploring public perceptions and responses to gambling advertising.
• Findings were independently reviewed by experts, with recommendations aimed at promoting evidence-based safer gambling messaging and enhancing support for those at risk of gambling harm.
• The upcoming guidelines will provide operators with clear guidance on promoting safer gambling practices and facilitating access to support services.

Take Time to Think:

• Managed by the Betting and Gaming Council, ‘Take Time to Think’ is a widely used slogan in gambling advertising.
• The upcoming guidelines will recommend clear signposting alongside the GambleAware logo, aiming to improve awareness of support services among viewers.

Operators’ Guidelines:

• Set to be released later in 2024, the guidelines will emphasize the importance of clear signposting alongside the GambleAware logo in gambling advertising.

Source:

GambleAware calls for health warnings on gambling ads, as major research highlights need for improved safer gambling messaging. May 13, 2024.