The UK problem gambling charity GamCare and the not-for-profit eCommerce and Online Gambling Regulation and Assurance (eCOGRA) group pooled their expertise in London last week to train almost 40 online casino managers on the principles of responsible gambling, and how to identify and handle problem gamblers.

Management delegates travelled from their bases around the world to attend the two-day intensive training course, which featured lectures, case history studies and interactive training exercises supervised by expert GamCare officials Andrew Poole and Amy Webster.

The course covered all aspects of responsible gambling and the now well established principles for handling this important management function which eCOGRA Safe and Fair sealed gambling venues are required to use.

Former UK Gaming Board chief inspector, GamCare trustee and eCOGRA independent director Bill Galston welcomed delegates to the course, stressing the critical importance of a coherent and professional responsible gambling programme at online gambling establishments.

"For both humanitarian and ethical reasons - and to correct adverse misperceptions by some - a comprehensive responsible gambling policy is a critical investment for any online gambling operation," he said. "eCOGRA has made huge strides in this area in developing a set of best practice requirements for online gambling operations, and this third course on the subject will coach managers in how to apply these tools.

"On this course we are especially pleased to also welcome experienced managers from major companies that are members of the European Gaming and Betting Association, adding to the pool of experience that makes these occasions such a valuable two-way exchange of knowledge."