Safer Gambling Week 2025 - Promoting responsible gambling practices

Safer Gambling Week 2025 will take place from 17–23 November and will involve organisations from across the regulated gambling industry in the UK and Ireland. The initiative is organised by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), BACTA, the Lotteries Council, and the Bingo Association.

The purpose of the week is to spark conversation about responsible gambling and promote awareness of tools that help people stay in control. Campaign messages will be visible both online and in physical venues such as betting shops, bingo halls, and amusement arcades.

The Safer Gambling Week website offers guidance on practical safeguards — including deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion — as well as reflective questions that encourage players to evaluate their habits. The initiative also emphasises the consumer protections offered within the licensed sector compared with unregulated markets.

Data from last year shows that more than 1.5 million unique accounts used at least one safer gambling tool, marking a 22% rise from the previous year. Use of deposit limits increased by 14%, with nearly half being set for the first time. The 2024 campaign also generated over 60 million social media impressions across X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Allaster Gair, BACTA’s Director of Communications, commented: “The core idea behind Safer Gambling Week is that everyone should be able to have fun safely. Our members take this seriously — providing support, guidance, and safe spaces where customers can enjoy gambling responsibly.”

Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, added: “Safer Gambling Week is an important opportunity for the industry to show its commitment to protecting consumers and encouraging responsible play.

“Although progress has been made, we must continue working to ensure that the tools and safeguards available to people are effective and widely promoted.

“Collaboration and evidence-based action remain essential to making gambling in Great Britain fairer, safer, and free from crime.”