A recent BBC investigation has revealed serious problems with self-exclusion schemes at adult gaming centres (AGCs) in the UK, designed to help problem gamblers avoid slot machine venues. The Gambling Commission, the industry regulator, called the findings “very concerning.”
Adult gaming centres, often found in poorer areas, must offer self-exclusion programs that allow gamblers to ban themselves from entering.
These schemes are especially important because slot machines are linked to higher addiction rates compared to other gambling forms.
In the BBC documentary, an undercover reporter signed up for self-exclusion within a 40km radius of a Portsmouth gaming centre. While the reporter was blocked from entering the initial venue, he was still able to access 13 other nearby AGCs, including one just 100 metres away. Staff at one venue even encouraged him to play and offered snacks.
This failure breaks Gambling Commission rules, which require all nearby venues, even those run by different companies, to be alerted when someone tries to breach self-exclusion.
Merkur Slots, one of the largest AGC operators, was fined nearly £100,000 earlier this year for previous misconduct. The company said it follows industry rules and tries to support customers using self-exclusion.
The Gambling Commission said it will urgently investigate the issue and reminded local authorities to inspect gambling businesses to ensure compliance.
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