Adult Gaming Centers Face Scrutiny Over Self-Exclusion Scheme Failures

Investigation Reveals Loopholes Allowing Problem Gamblers to Continue Playing

A recent investigation has uncovered shortcomings in the self-exclusion schemes meant to protect vulnerable gamblers in adult gaming centers (AGCs). Many venues fail to enforce these programs, allowing individuals struggling with addiction to continue gambling and accumulate further debt, raising serious concerns about regulatory compliance.

Undercover Investigation Reveals Weak Enforcement

An undercover reporter, Greg Clark, registered for a self-exclusion scheme and extended it to a 40km radius of Portsmouth, a city with a high density of AGCs. Despite this, only one out of fourteen AGCs visited refused him entry. He was able to gamble at multiple venues, highlighting the inadequacy of the existing measures.

Gaps in the System

Many AGCs do not adhere to self-exclusion schemes, which is a violation of their licenses. If a venue does not participate, it is in breach of its license. These establishments see patrons spending up to £2 per spin on machines, which lasts merely two and a half seconds. Games provide payouts of up to £500, which is a problem.

“I didn’t feel like an addict. I just thought that was just my thing. And then you start to realise ‘I’m not just going once a week, I’m going two, three, four times a week’. Then you’re getting to the point where you can’t pay your bills.”

—Tracy Page, Gambler

A recent study by the UK Gambling Commission revealed that approximately 1.4 million adults in the UK are considered problem gamblers or at risk of problem gambling (Gambling Commission 2023).

Industry and Regulatory Response

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for gambling reform, stated that the lack of enforcement reflects a lack of concern from AGC companies. He advocates for local authorities and the Gambling Commission to have enhanced powers to tackle these abuses. Furthermore, Tim Miller, executive director of the Gambling Commission, expressed concern and stated that strong action would be taken against companies that fail to meet regulatory expectations.

The Department of Culture Media and Sport emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and stated that regulatory action would be taken where operators fail to maintain effective self-exclusion schemes. They further expressed their intention to collaborate with the land-based gambling sector.