Key figures from GambleAware have raised concerns regarding the delay in the UK Government’s plans to appoint a new prevention commissioner.
Earlier this week, the Government confirmed the roll-out of a statutory levy to fun gamblingharm research, prevention and treatment work.
Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware and Prof. Siân Griffiths CBE, public health expert and Chair of GambleAware Trustees said in a public statement: “We welcome the Government’s plans for the new statutory levy on the gambling industry, alongside the introduction of lower online stake limits. This represents a significant step towards protecting people from gambling harm.
“We are, however, concerned that the delay in appointing the new prevention commissioner could adversely impact the continuity of services. Clarity on this role is urgently needed to prevent system degradation as we know that prevention is at the core of tackling gambling related harms and needs to be integrated with the treatment offering.
“This includes impactful public health campaigns, self-help tools, and education programmes which we know are essential to addressing this serious public health issue."
