Best of Britain: The online casinos you just have to try!

The UK is one of the leading regions for online casinos, and UK players are well taken care of at these casinos. The online casino industry in Britain is packed with diverse UK Online casinos that include traditional and hybrid casinos. UK players can create accounts and play at various casinos, and some of the top choices are £5 deposit casinos, £10 deposit casinos and £20 deposit casinos. If you are reading this and want to find some of these casinos, you can head to our best online casinos UK page and find your favourite ones. However, before you do that, we suggest you keep on reading as we go through four of the best online casinos in Britain, covering the bonus offerings at each casino plus additional features.

Starting out at the higher end: The best £20 casino

Having entered the UK scene in 2021, Slots n’Play has quickly emerged as one of Britain’s best £20 minimum deposit casinos. The Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission license slots n’Play. Operated by Aspire Global International LTD, new UK players have access to one of the industry’s best £20 deposit bonuses. New UK players who create an account at the casino can claim a welcome package that includes bonus funds and extra spins covering their first four deposits. Each deposit bonus offer of the welcome package can be claimed with a £20 minimum deposit, and below is a breakdown of the welcome offer at Slots n’Play:

Welcome Bonus

Slots n’Play

Deposit £20 Get MULTIDEPOSIT BONUS UP TO £100 + 200 BONUS SPINS

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• First deposit: 50% up to £50 + 40 extra spins in Big Bass Bonanza
• Second deposit: 40 extra spins in Book of Dead
• Third deposit: 60 extra spins in Legacy of Dead
• Fourth deposit: 50% up to £50 + 60 extra spins in Fire Joker

Each deposit bonus and subsequent winnings from the bonus funds and extra spins have 35x wagering requirements. The welcome offer is only available on deposits made with specific payment options. To better understand the bonus terms and conditions, visit our Slots n’Play Casino Review. Since we have mentioned payment options, did you know that all payment methods at the casino are encrypted with 128-bit SSL technology, ensuring that all UK player’s banking details are safe and will never be leaked. Available UK casino payment options at the casino include Visa, PayPal, Trustly, Paysafecard and MuchBetter.

The Best tenner for British players is Leo Vegas Casino

Licensed and regulated £10 minimum deposit casinos are an excellent gaming destination for UK players. £10 deposit casinos provide players with inexpensive gameplay plus the added bonus of claiming extra spins and bonus funds with only a small deposit. In the British online casino industry, it’s widely considered that £10 deposit casinos have some of the best bonus offerings available to players. One of these bonuses can be claimed from the popular online casino and sportsbook Leo Vegas. Leo Vegas has been in the gambling industry for more than a decade and is licensed and regulated. With its jungle theme and bold orange backdrop, Leo Vegas is pleasing to the eye and welcoming to all newcomers.

Welcome Bonus

LeoVegas

Deposit £10 Get UP TO £100 IN WELCOME BONUS OFFERS + 50 SPINS

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New UK players who sign up at the casino and sportsbook can claim two excellent welcome offers, one on the casino and the other on the sportsbook. For casino lovers, new players can access 50 extra spins plus up to £100 in bonus funds with a minimum deposit of £10. The welcome offer is packed with conditions and wagering requirements, so to make life easier for our players, we have dissected these terms in our Leo Vegas Casino Review. With over 800 exciting casino games, innovative banking methods, a plethora of bonuses and promotions and an excellent mobile gaming experience, it is easy to see why Leo Vegas is one of the best online casinos in Britain.

The best new £5 casino in Britain

British casinos allow players to make deposits in various denominations, and studies have shown that, on average, casino 5 pound deposits are the most popular. £5 deposit casinos are gaining popularity all over the UK, especially during these tough economic times. The beauty of £5 deposit casinos is the abundance of bonuses that can be triggered with a small bankroll. One of the long-standing betting companies in the UK, Ladbrokes, has endorsed £5 deposits and currently has a fairly new £5 deposit bonus available for its players. 

Ladbrokes has been in the betting industry since the early 2000s and provides players with an excellent sportsbook and an exciting online casino that includes table games, slots and a live casino. New players at Ladbrokes can enjoy one of four exceptional welcome bonuses, and each bonus covers the various betting products at the operator. The four welcome bonus offers at Ladbrokes are listed below:

• Sports bonus: Bet £5 and get £20 in free bets
• Bingo bonus: £25 welcome bonus
• Poker bonus: £50 in free play
• Casino bonus: Bet £10 and get a £50 bonus

Unfortunately, new UK players can only claim one of the bonus offers, but all are excellent options. After extensive gameplay and research at Ladbrokes, our team has compiled our Ladbrokes Casino Review, and we have drawn some conclusions that our readers will find interesting. The online casino has some exciting promotions available to UK players, and there are hundreds of games to enjoy from various software providers; therefore, we consider Ladbrokes one of the best casinos in Britain.

Another one of the best of Britain online casinos is Amber Spins Casino

Rounding up our list of the best online casinos in Britain is Amber Spins. First established in 2021, Amber Spins is a licensed online casino that welcomes players from across the UK. New players who visit the casino will find a simplistic design that uses plenty of animations and graphics. The simplistic design of the website is one of the strong points of Amber Spins, and we are glad that the website is user-friendly and not cluttered with unnecessary words that fill up space.

New UK players are welcomed with a generous welcome offer that includes bonus funds and extra spins. With a small minimum deposit of £5 and entering the promo code: AMBER5, new players can claim up to £30 in bonus funds and 50 extra spins. The extra spins are available on select casino games and will be issued randomly, so players cannot choose their own game to use the extra spins. Bonus funds have 60x wagering requirements, while any winnings on the extra spins must be wagered 40x.

Amber Spins uses some of the best software providers to enhance their gaming library, and with over 1000 casino games, we are sure that UK players will have a fun and exciting time playing at the casino. Popular gaming genres include mega ways and bonus buy features. UK players can play games like Starburst, Fruit Blast and Madame Voodoo. If you want more information about the gaming library at the casino, read our Amber Spins Casino Review.

Online casinos that are the best for British players

Slots n’Play, Leo Vegas, Ladbrokes and Amber Spins are four of the best online casinos in Britain. We have discussed each casino and have included the current bonus offerings. All four casinos have their standout features. Whether you are in the market for a £5 deposit casino, £10 deposit casino or £20 deposit casino, we believe these online casinos are the perfect choice for UK players.

Commemorating International Responsible Gambling Day

By Ginevra Alessandrello

Trusted and reputable top online casinos have consistently spread responsible gambling messages, but on 17 February 2024 in commemoration of International Responsible Gambling Day, this awareness will be enhanced ten-fold. Regulators, governments and the gambling industry are focusing on safer gambling habits to help vulnerable players.

Since online casinos opened in the early 1990s, gambling has been promoted as fun-filled entertainment. While most people can gamble within those parameters, there’s no fun in it for some. When a person starts playing compulsively, they struggle to log off. They will be obsessed about winning and will chase wins, hoping to get back what they’ve lost.

Since COVID-19, the world has been forced to lock itself indoors, with little to do. Many turned to online casinos as a pastime. With scores of new players registering daily, the best online casinos and regulatory authorities have joined hands to combat the rise of gambling addiction.

Responsible gambling events taking place globally

There are several events taking place globally during the month of February and March 2024 in commemoration of this international day. They include the following:

The Washington-based National Council on Problem Gambling will be hosting the Digital Symposium 2024 – which is one of the bigger initiatives – taking place on 15 February 2024. Three other follow-up events are scheduled to take place in May, September and November. On the agenda is the topic of the ripple effect of problem gambling on families, approaches to supporting loved ones, financial counselling, gambling treatment and recovery experiences.

Meanwhile, the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) in Canada will be hosting the Discovery 2024 conference from 25 to 27 March 2024 to drive change and deliver impact for responsible gambling. Attendees will be joining in person and online.

The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation, on the other hand, has uploaded a Self-Check Quiz on its Homepage in red. The quiz helps players determine if they have a gambling problem and provides support and resources on what they can do.

How Do Online Casinos Promote Responsible Gambling?

Reputable and licensed top online casinos provide responsible gambling tools on their sites for players to use. By activating the safety features, players can control how much they play and spend.

They can do this by self-excluding (temporarily or permanently), which can be set for 1 week, 1 month, or permanently. After requesting self-exclusion, the casino will block you instantly. If you have opted for temporary self-exclusion, it will take a few hours until the changes are made and your account is activated.

Players can also set deposit limits, initiate cooling-off periods, and even activate loss limits. Many best online casinos also include a “Reality Check” tool that consistently reminds individuals of the duration they have been playing for, the amounts they have wagered, and how much real money they have lost over a period of time.

People who feel they have a gambling issue can also attend therapy or get involved with support groups. There is no shame in seeking help, but for many of those afflicted, their addiction is a dirty little secret they don’t share with anyone.

People who feel they may have a problem with gambling are encouraged to make use of national helplines in their home countries, which are free of charge. These types of call centres are confidential and offer expert advice and support.

Unpacking Gambling Addiction

Gambling stimulates the brain’s reward system with a release of Dopamine, the happiness hormone. When dopamine levels drop, addicted players feel the need to chase wins to get back those good feelings. Experts say that 70% of study participants with mood disorders use gambling as a coping strategy to escape their symptoms.

Gambling addiction is when players become so consumed by thoughts of winning that they obsess and chase wins. Addicts often play with money they don’t have, spend their work time gambling, avoid socialising, and even disguise their gambling behaviour.

Compulsive gambling is a mental disorder that offers no warning. People can gamble for years and never develop a gambling addiction, while others play once and are addicted. Life-changing events like divorce or financial problems can be the catalyst for an addiction to develop.

Real-money games like slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack are fun and should never be used for anything other than entertainment.

Gambling addiction only happens to 2-3% of the gambling population. Still, when we consider that there are a staggering 8 billion people in the world and that gambling is a $400 billion industry, it’s clear that most adults enjoy this pastime. Since COVID-19, online casino games like slots, sports betting, table games have become extremely popular.

Most individuals are able to play within their budget, but others struggle with this. Problem gambling was only identified as an addiction in the late 1980s, before this, gambling was seen as entertainment.

After intensive studies, compulsive gambling was eventually re-classified as an addiction.

The stigma around problem gambling

The stigma around gambling addiction has impacted the choices made by individuals around the world. It impacts prevention and treatment.

According to a scientific paper ‘Gambling Disorder and Stigma’ – published in 2022 by Leanne Quigley – gambling disorders are among the most stigmatized mental health problems. She states that such stigma leads to concealment, reduced treatment-seeking, and decreased self-esteem.

Stigma is the negative evaluations and attitudes about a condition, leading to discrimination of individuals. In her paper, Quigley says this then leads to self-stigma.

The stigma attached to gambling addiction is prevalent in all countries. If there is one thing you can do to help others, it would be to help raise awareness and speak out against the stigma. No one deserves to be shamed!

SkyCity warns against rising scam using its brand name

By Shadrack Kairu

SkyCity – a top online casino NZ– has raised an alarm over the rising number of fake online gaming sites and apps using its branding in a bid to lure unsuspecting customers. SkyCity Casino is a part of SkyCity Entertainment Group which is based in Auckland, New Zealand and operates five casino properties in NZ and Australia, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars.

This top paying online casino NZ burst onto the online gaming scene in 2019. Ever since, it has become a darling among Kiwis to play online games. With a valid MGA license, over 1,300 games from big-name suppliers, awesome bonuses, and great loyalty perks, SkyCity Casino has all the markings of an industry leader, and it’s no wonder that in recent times the brand has become a target for scammers seeking to exploit the casino’s popularity and success.

SkyCity’s Chief Executive Officer Michael Ahearne told media it had seen a noticeable increase in the amount of false advertising targeting New Zealanders with the company’s trademarks and emblems.

The majority of these fake advertisements are reportedly on Facebook. They frequently persuade users to download deceptive apps from the Google Play Store. These apps falsely represent themselves as genuine online gambling services from SkyCity when they are not.

“In the last few months, we have seen a significant increase in the number of online gambling advertisements fraudulently using SkyCity’s brand and logs to target Kiwi consumers. These advertisements have been appearing on Facebook and direct users to download an app in Google’s Play Store,” Ahearne was quoted as saying.

Kiwis urged to double-check the credentials of casino operators

SkyCity is concerned over the potential risks this impersonation may cause to locals who may believe they are using the legitimate SkyCity online casino app when that is not the case. Because these platforms imitate the company’s name, logo, and overall image, it can be hard for some users to distinguish between the legitimate SkyCity app and the phony ones.

Speaking during Cyber Smart Week, Ahearne stressed the need for alertness, urging Kiwis to verify the authenticity of NZ online casinos and exercise caution when clicking on links from social media.

“We are concerned that Kiwis are being misled into thinking they are playing on our SkyCity Online Casino when they are not. This Cyber Smart Week, we want to remind people to be careful about the URLs that they use and be vigilant when clicking links,” he said.

According to Ahearne, regulating the online gambling industry in New Zealand would be the right step towards protecting residents against some of the fraudulent practices. Some companies employ these dubious schemes in an attempt to swindle vulnerable consumers. He said local regulatory organizations deserve to be given the mandate to deal with rogue operators who are out to con New Zealand citizens.

As a precautionary measure, Kiwis are advised to double-check the web addresses they visit before engaging in real money gambling. As a rule, any website that doesn’t have an active Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption should be avoided.

An SSL is an encryption feature that protects sensitive information from being intercepted by malicious third parties during input and submission. All online casinos must have an active SSL in place because users often have to add their sensitive data to the site.

You can verify whether an online casino site has an active SSL by checking the URL. If a URL starts with HTTPS, where “S” stands for “secure”, the SSL is in place. But if it starts with HTTP instead, security is a concern.

Top online casinos in NZ will typically use the industry-standard 128-bit or 256-bit SSL encryption tech for maximum security. Always be vigilant when clicking social media links to ensure your online safety and security.

Additionally, NZ online casinos must be licensed, regulated, and certified by reputable agencies. As a player, you should look out for the licensing status of an online casino site. Operators with valid licenses from trusted regulatory bodies such as Curacao eGaming, MGA, and UKGC are considered to be safe and secure.

At the same time, certification is vital when it comes to playing online casinos for real money in New Zealand. Look out for online casinos whose games have been tested and certified for fairness.

Some of the most reputable certification bodies are eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and TST (Technical Systems Testing). Only risk your money in an online casino after verifying that it operates in a safe, secure, and fair manner.

How to ensure online gambling sites in NZ are safe

Gambling is a popular pastime in New Zealand owing to the convenience and accessibility of online casinos. However, not all NZ online casinos are created equal.

There are no laws in the country that permit online casinos to offer casino-type games like virtual poker or roulette. As a result, players resort to using overseas gambling sites. This presents a great risk.

Due to a lack of security, players are at the mercy of every rogue in the marketplace. Scammers masquerading as genuine offshore casino operators can take advantage of gullible players by conning them.

When playing at NZ online casinos, make sure that you play in a venue that guarantees a fun, safe, and fair gaming experience. Therefore, unless a casino has gone through a thorough screening process, it should be a no-go zone.

If you want to enjoy your gaming experience without worrying about getting scammed, you should consider checking reliable sources for properly screened casinos. You can discover top online casinos NZ through reviews and recommendations from affiliate sites such as Minimum Deposit Casinos.

Given the sheer number of options to choose from, and all the seductive bonus offers, it can be hard to pick the best online casino in NZ.

MDC cuts through the noise to bring you updated listings of the best online casinos in New Zealand. Before recommending any online casino, we thoroughly vet it to ensure it meets our stringent criteria for security, fairness, and overall gaming experience.

The first and most important thing we look at is whether the casino is licensed and regulated by an authorized organization. We value licenses from reputable authorities like the UKGC, MGA, Kahnawake Gaming Commission, and Curacao eGaming Licensing Authority. These organizations enforce strict regulations for online casinos to follow before obtaining a license.

Moreover, MDC assesses the fairness of the games offered by NZ online casinos. In addition to scrutinizing the gaming software, we evaluate the presence of trusted third-party auditors, like eCOGRA or iTech Labs, who regularly test and certify the casino games. We do this to ensure the integrity of the RNGs of the games, and that online casinos don’t stand a chance at manipulating the results.

We also check the banking methods supported at an online casino. How many are there? Are they efficient and reliable? Are there limits on deposits/withdrawals? Does the casino charge any fees? And most importantly, what security measures are there to guarantee secure transactions?

MDC prioritizes online casinos that allow players to choose between credit/debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies. The goal is to ensure the available payment options are convenient, fast, and, most importantly, secure. Security measures we consider are SSL encryption data, multiple identity verification, firewall protection, and anti-money laundering best practices.

What’s more? We analyze reviews from other players and industry experts to determine how reputable an NZ online casino is in the eyes of the gaming community. For this, we use online forums, social media platforms, and other review sites. These reviews give us an overview of what others think vis-a-vis what we think of an online casino in NZ.

This comprehensive approach allows us to give you a well-rounded assessment, ensuring that you have the most accurate and reliable information you need to make informed selections and avoid any fraud.

What It Takes to Be in Our Top 3 $1 Casinos in Canada

With so many CA$1 deposit casinos launching every year, choosing the best site that deserves your time and money can be a daunting task. But you don’t have to worry about that anymore; we have done the difficult task on your behalf. Here at minimumdepositcasinos.org, we check the ins and outs of every casino we come across before putting it on the list of top casinos.

For a $1 deposit casino Canada to feature on our top 3 list, it must offer the best quality bonuses for new and existing players. In addition to that, we check the games that the bonuses are available on, the payment methods you can use to claim the bonuses, and much more. This read will take you through the criteria our top casinos must pass through before appearing on our list.

Only the Best Quality Bonuses Make Cut

An online casino bonus is indeed the first point of contact between the casino and the player. For that reason, every Canadian casino that wants to make our top 3 must offer casino bonuses that stand out from the rest of the competition. What we mean by this is that the bonuses must be bigger than those offered by the competition. For example, there is no point in recommending $1 deposit casinos with 10 free spins, yet there is another one with 100 free spins for $1.

Apart from offering sizable casino bonuses, we check the terms and conditions of such bonuses to make sure they are fair. One of the most common terms and conditions that we usually check is the wagering requirements. Well, this is the multiplier that represents how much you need to wager before withdrawing your bonus. For example, wagering requirements of 10X mean that you must wager the bonus at least 10 times before making any withdrawals. If the multiplier is bigger, it means that you will take longer to convert your bonus to cash. On the other hand, if the multiplier is small, it means that you can roll over your bonus and convert it to cash within a short period of time. That said, casinos that want a special place on our top 3 list must offer bonuses with low wagering requirements.

The bonus expiration date is another important term that we check when ranking our top three Canadian online casinos. A short expiration date means that the $1 casino bonus may expire before completing the wagering requirements. When this happens, your bonus and winnings will be forfeited. On the other hand, long expiration dates mean that you have enough time to wager your casino bonus. Luckily, casinos on our top 3 list offer bonuses that are valid for a long period of time, like 10, 30 or 60 days. Other terms and conditions you will find fair at our top Canadian casinos include maximum bet limits and maximum withdrawal limits.

Bonuses Are Rewarded on The Most Popular Games Around

Most minimum deposit casinos that accept Canadian players offer free spin bonuses. However, you will find out that the free spins are only available on less popular slots, boring games, or games you have never heard of. These less popular games usually have low RTPs, a few bonus features, and poor graphics. So, when you play the games, you won’t enjoy a thrilling and rewarding gaming experience.

But with our top Canadian $1 deposit casinos, you can rest assured of using your $1 bonus on some of the most popular slots. In other words, free spins are awarded on popular slots with high RTPs, engaging themes, HD graphics, and exciting bonus features. The slot machines are also powered by some of the most popular software providers like Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, and Pragmatic Play.

Another exciting thing about the popular slots you can play using the bonus is that most of them contribute 100% towards wagering requirements. This means that every free spin you use to spin the reels of a slot machine will help you meet wagering requirements. One important thing worth pointing out is that some Canadian $1 free spin bonuses have game restrictions. Well, this is the limit of slot machines that can play using the bonus. Some casinos will restrict free spins to one slot machine, while others don’t have any restrictions.

Our goal isn’t just to hand out free spins; it’s to make every spin an exciting adventure. With bonuses on popular games, our top 3 CA$1 casinos turn every spin into a chance for fun. It’s like being part of a game where bonuses aren’t just prizes; they’re essential for an unforgettable gaming journey.

Variety of Payment Methods Available for the Bonus

Free spins for $1 are as generous as they sound, and every Canadian casino player would love to get their hands on them. However, there is a big problem that comes into play when making deposits in order to claim free spins. When you read most bonus terms and conditions, you will realize that some payment methods are not eligible for free spins bonuses. Some of the most restricted payment methods are e-wallets such as Neteller, Skrill, and ecoPayz. When you make your first deposit of $1 using these payment methods, you won’t unlock any free spins.

Fortunately, minimum deposit casinos on our top 3 list are aware of the ordeal experience that e-wallet lovers go through and have done away with any kind of payment restrictions. So, if e-wallets are your preferred payment method, you can join our top casinos and deposit $1 using a wide variety of payment methods. You can, for example, deposit using Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, ecoPayz, and MuchBetter.

One exciting thing about making a $1 deposit using e-wallets is that your funds will reflect instantly. This means you can claim your $1 deposit bonus right away and start playing casino games for free. Most e-wallets also have little or no processing fees, which means you will get to keep more of your money. In addition to e-wallets, you can deposit $1 using debit/credit cards such as Visa, Maestro, and Mastercard. While these cards are instant when making deposits, they may attract a processing fee of up to 2.5%.

That’s A Wrap Of What It Takes To Be In Our Top 3

 Securing a spot in our coveted top 3 $1 deposit casinos Canada means redefining the gaming standard. These chosen platforms prioritize quality in bonuses, offering more than just a numerical advantage – they provide an immersive experience with enticing free spins, fair terms, and heightened winning potential. 

What truly sets them apart is the dedication to featuring bonuses exclusively on the most popular and thrilling games, avoiding the mundane titles often tied to bonuses elsewhere. Plus, claiming your Bonus is a breeze with flexible payment options, including popular e-wallets like Neteller or Skrill. This isn’t just gaming; it’s a commitment to exceptional quality, making every spin a part of an unforgettable adventure. Join us where gaming is not just an experience; it’s an extraordinary journey. 

iGB Affiliate 2024 gets underway in London

One of the biggest igaming events of the year ‘iGB Affiliate 2024’ gets underway in London with some 6,500 global attendees and more than 200 forward-thinking exhibitors. It promises to be two days of in-depth learning, where the achievements at online casinos and sportsbooks will be celebrated. The iGB Affiliate Awards part of the event takes place on 8 February 2024 at Art Deco Troxy in London.

Naomi Barton, iGB Portfolio Director, confirmed that this year has seen a record number of submissions, demonstrating the importance of the awards to the iGaming affiliate community.

Winning such a coveted award acknowledges the hard work and dedication and provides a golden opportunity for industry members to build valuable connections. Rewarding outstanding performance in the Best Online Casino industry, the iGB Affiliate Awards encourages affiliates and operators to keep to the high standards at Top Rated Online Casinos.

Categories at the iGB Affiliate Awards 2024

OneTwenty Group – the parent company of Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC) – has been shortlisted for the Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year award and other nominations include Casino Guru, Gamblers Connect, and GIG Media.

The glamorous gambling industry event showcases achievements and innovations happening at Best Online Casinos. Recognized as one of the key networking events in the iGaming affiliate calendar, the award categories include innovation, creativity, integrity, and talent.

Some categories include Best Casino Affiliate, Best Crypto Affiliate, Best Affiliate Manager, Affiliate Employer of the Year, and Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year.  Featuring a celebration of everything positive in the industry on 11,800 square metres, there will be 176 participating companies, a three-course sit-down dinner, an entertainment-packed stage show, and a star-studded dinner for the awards.

Here are some other shortlisted contenders for the Affiliate Awards 2024:

Best Sports Betting Affiliate

• Better Collective
• Checkd Group
• Gambling.com Group
• GiG Media
• Oddschecker
• OLBG
• Skores Media
• Spotlight Sports Group

Best Bingo Affiliate

• BingoPort
• FTD Digital
• WhichBingo

Best Poker Affiliate

• Mypokercoaching
• Onlinepoker.se
• PokerNews
• Worldpokerdeals

Best Crypto Affiliate

• CoinGambling
• Crypto Lists Ltd
• Find. co (CryptoManiaks, CCN)
• Gamblineers

Marketing Campaign of the Year

• Betandeal
• Casino Guru for TikTok Marketing
• Checkd Group and William Hill

Rising Star

• BestOdds (Stram Entertainment Ltd)
• Betting Hero
• Chilli Partners
• DeepCI from EveryMatrix
• MioMedia
• R2D Partners
• Revpanda

Best Newcomer

• 2rbo Affiliates
• Affiliate Roulette
• Media 24
• TrackBox.ai
• Wow Partners

Game of the Year

• Big Bass Bonanza Keeping It Reel (Pragmatic Play)
• Coin Strike Hold And Win (Playson)
• Cops N Robbers Big Money (Inspired Entertainment)
• Fishin Frenzy Even Bigger Catch (Blueprint Gaming)
• Football Cash Collect (Playtech)
• Gold Blitz (Fortune Factory Studios)
• Golden Dragon Inferno (Betsoft Gaming)
• Rip City (Hacksaw Gaming)
• Rise Of Olympus 100 (Play’n GO)
• Super Stars (NetEnt)

What is the Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year?

Online gambling is popular globally, but this has also led to an increase in the potential for gambling addiction. Online casinos let players win real money with slots and gambling games, but their actual value should always be seen as fun filled entertainment. Licensed and regulated online casinos are safe for most people, but some players can develop a compulsive gambling habit no matter how many safety features there are. Ongoing responsible gambling promotions and messages contribute to keeping online gambling safe and responsible.

People who play slots and table games online, or bet on sports can become addicted, and this can ruin their personal relationships and can even lead to bankruptcy. This is why many reputable and licensed online casinos have adopted safer gambling measures like self-exclusion to mitigate gambling addiction. Players who want to take back control can activate deposit and spending tools on the Responsible Gaming pages. Here, players can set deposit limits, set a reminder of how long they’ve played, or use any of the other available tools to stay in control. Players can also self exclude temporarily or permanently when their gambling gets out of control. For companies making their living from real money gambling games, responsible gambling tools are crucial to ensuring a safe online casino environment.

Who is OneTwenty?

The OneTwenty Group is a high-quality sports and gaming performance marketing company with a compliance-first mindset. It connects betting customers with reputable and trusted New Online Casinos and sportsbooks to form long-term, successful relationships.

Being shortlisted for Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year is a big deal in the industry. It means that OneTwenty is being recognized for going above and beyond to keep gamblers safe by spreading the Responsible Gambling message.

Traditionally, iGaming affiliates lead casino players to online casinos to generate revenue, but OneTwenty takes a different approach. Using their omni-channel communication platform, they interact with players by providing educational, entertaining, and engaging resources. This ensures the highest possible customer satisfaction with content delivered at the right time in the correct format.

Onetwenty was founded in 2016 and has built a network of some of the biggest iGaming brands since then. With over 90 professionals on the team, OneTwenty ensures it maintains the best iGaming and sports betting in regulated markets. Some of OneTwenty’s divisions include Squawka, where you can keep up to date with sports matches happening across the globe in real-time. Plus, Squawka keeps you updated with the latest news, social chats, quizzes, predictions, betting tips and more. MDC is another division of OneTwenty, where online casino experts scrutinize top casinos to recommend only the best and most trusted online casinos to players. It educates casino players on the best minimum deposit casinos in their region and promotes responsible gambling.

MDC investigates : Entain’s Chief Executive Steps Down

By Daniela Rose

There has been a shift in leadership for well-known online casino giants Bwin, Sportingbet, and Ladbrokes as Jette Nygaard-Andersen, the chief executive of Entain Group, resigned from her position on Wednesday, 13 December 2023. This comes weeks after the betting group agreed to a settlement of more than $/€760 million following an investigation into alleged bribery at a company it owned in Turkey.

The decision to leave comes after an increase in costly purchases, a dramatic drop in the company’s share price, and rising investor criticism. Nygaard-Andersen faced mounting pressure and criticism from activist investors over the company’s share price, which had dropped by over a third during her three-year tenure. The decision has sent shockwaves throughout the online casino industry.

According to The Guardian, Nygaard-Andersen states, “The resolution of the HMRC [HM Revenue and Customs] investigation into the legacy business, sold by a former management team in 2017, offers a clean inflection point for me and for Entain.”

With the group currently established as safe and sustainable, Nygaard-Andersen expressed belief that the present juncture is optimal for pursuing new avenues in terms of business and career opportunities.

Stella David, a non-executive director, has been invited by Entain to serve as temporary CEO. David will begin her tenure immediately and serve until a permanent replacement for Nygaard-Andersen has been selected.

Background of Entain Group

Entain PLC (Entain), formerly known as GVC Holdings, is a multinational online sports betting and online casino firm. It serves the online gaming and sports betting industry through online and retail channels with business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) services.

The company employs 26,000 people and has offices in 20 countries and five continents, with a diverse portfolio of top online casino brands including Bwin, Coral, Crystal bet, Eurobet, Ladbrokes, Sportingbet, Sports Interaction, Foxy Bingo, Gala, Ninja Casino, PartyPoker, and Party Casino.

According to The Guardian, Nygaard-Andersen took control in January 2021, just weeks after the Entain rejected a $/€10.2 billion buyout offer from MGM – a leader in sports betting and igaming in the United States. It is also a 50/50 joint venture of the Group.

Entain supplies the technology and capabilities that power MGM and specific casino games and products developed in-house at its gaming studios. The leaving of Nygaard-Andersen comes after the corporation wrestled with the implications of strategic initiatives that failed to produce favourable results.

Investors have been loud in their discontent, and plummeting share prices highlight the company’s difficulties. The failed US deal for Entain was valued at $/€17.83 per share, far more than the current valuation. The stock was trading at $/€10.6 this week, up roughly 5% since news of the CEO’s resignation hit the markets.

Nygaard-Andersen led the company through an inquiry by the UK’s tax department into suspicions of bribery at its Turkish subsidiary, which it sold in 2017. Her resignation comes just one week after the corporation agreed to pay a $/€778 million settlement to end the investigation.

The firm resolved the case in the UK High Court, consenting to a $/€740 million penalty, a $/€25 million charitable contribution, and $/€12.6 million to address the investigation’s expenses. In a written ruling, the judge recognized the company’s implementation of sweeping changes to its compliance procedures.

Reflecting on the past three years, Nygaard-Andersen stated, “The past three years have been rewarding and challenging in equal measure,” The conclusion of the bribery investigation, she noted, “offers a clean inflection point for me and for Entain.”

Entain’s Performance In The Past 2 Years

Over the past two years, Entain has faced several setbacks, with its performance taking a nosedive. Statistics and figures from Bloomberg reveal a grim financial picture, highlighting the challenges that have plagued the company. Shareholders have witnessed a substantial decline in value, raising concerns about Entain’s ability to weather the storm and regain its footing in the competitive gaming market.

Entain’s shares had dropped about 37% during Nygaard-Andersen’s nearly three-year tenure, even after revenue from the company’s US holding, BetMGM, soared as that market opened up to sports betting. Activist investors, who have built stakes in the company in recent months, complained that she destroyed value with poor deal-making decisions.

According to data compiled by Bloomberg, the company has announced at least 10 deals since Nygaard-Andersen joined in 2021, as she worked to expand the British company’s reach internationally. But the decision to fund a recent deal, a $/€946 million bid for Polish sports betting company STS Holding, with an equity sale, was criticized as ‘illogical’ and ‘value destroying’ by activist fund Eminence Capital.

Entain’s market value is now about $/€6.8 billion.

Entain’s Interim CEO

Stella David, announced as the Interim CEO of Entain on 13 December 2023, offers 20 years of Director experience from various companies. She previously served as Entain Senior Independent Non-Executive Director.

David has approximately many years of experience in a Non-executive and Independent Director roles between 2003 and now. Her leadership experience and expanding large consumer-facing companies adds to David’s accomplishments. She is currently an Independent Director and a Non-executive for Bacardi, Domino’s Pizza, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, demonstrating her versatility across industries.

David’s first prominent role was with Bacardi, where she began her career in 1999. As Regional President, she oversaw the company’s operations in many nations and territories. She held this post for 5 years before being promoted to SVP and CMO in 2005.

From 2003 to 2010, she was a Non-Executive Director at Nationwide Building Society, the UK’s second-largest mortgage and savings provider. Stella has served as a Non-Executive Director at 7 distinct companies between 2003 and now, with her tenures frequently overlapping.

David has been a Non-Executive Director at HomeServe Plc since November 2010 and C&J Clark Ltd since March 2012, with terms expiring in 2022 and 2021, respectively. David departed Bacardi in 2009 and joined the Board of Directors as a non-executive member in June 2016.

She is still a Non-Executive Director of Bacardi. She is also a Non-Executive Director of Domino’s Pizza and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, where she has served since 2021 and 2017 respectively. Aside from these positions, David served as Interim CEO of Clarks for 8 months, from July 2018 to February 2019. She is also the Chair of the cinema chain Vue, which she joined in January 2023.

From August 2009 to March 2016, she was also the CEO of William Grant & Sons Limited, a worldwide spirits company. During her tenure, she was instrumental in the company’s growth trajectory, particularly in premium and luxury products, as well as in guiding the company’s successful expansions.

David joined Entain as a Senior Independent Non-Executive Director in February 2021. Her extensive and multi-industry professional background provides her with a wealth of views and experiences to draw on in her current capacity.

As Entain undergoes this leadership transition, industry observers eagerly anticipate how the company will navigate challenges under Stella David’s guidance, predicting a brighter future.

OneTwenty Group shortlisted for IGB Affiliate Awards 2024

OneTwenty Group has been shortlisted in the coveted iGB Affiliate Awards, set to take place in London next year. The event aims to celebrate achievements within the online gambling industry, and will be held on 8 February 2024 from 19.30 to 1:00 GMT at the Troy in London – an Art Deco music venue on Commercial Road in Stepney.

The star-studded event recognizes affiliate companies within the iGaming affiliate space, awarding honour to companies for their part in keeping online gambling safe and exciting.

OneTwenty Group – a leading global performance marketing company – was shortlisted in the Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year award. Other shortlisted contenders were Casino Guru, Gamblers Connect, and GIG Media.

One Twenty Group is renowned for providing highly engaged Top Online Casino content to their iGaming partners. Since being founded in 2016, OneTwenty has built an intricate network of websites, guides, and apps to deliver marketing services to potential customers for some of the biggest iGaming brands in the world.

Winning an iGB Affiliate Award is a prestigious acknowledgement of hard work and provides an opportunity for industry members to build valuable connections and share insights on Online Casinos. Being nominated or winning an iGB Affiliate Award encourages ongoing dedication to excellence. By rewarding outstanding performance in the industry, the iGB Affiliate Awards promotes best practices and encourages affiliates and operators to keep high standards and improve services at Top Rated Online Casinos.

In 2024, the iGB Affiliate Awards will be bigger and better. Recognizing the best of the best across categories like Best Casino Affiliate, Best Crypto Affiliate, Best Affiliate Manager, Affiliate Employer of the Year, and Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year, the event will be pulling out all the stops. The glamorous event showcases achievements and innovations at Best Online Casinos with a New York 80s theme.

Background on OneTwenty

OneTwenty is a a high-quality sports and gaming performance marketing company with a compliance-first mindset. It aims to connect betting customers with New Online Casinos to form long-term, successful relationships. Being nominated for such a prestigious award – the Safer Gambling Initiative of the Year – is a big deal in the industry. It means that OneTwenty is being recognized for going over and beyond to keep online gamblers safe from gambling addiction through Responsible Gambling information and tools.

OneTwenty was founded in 2016 and since then, the company has built a network of some of the biggest iGaming brands globally. With over 80 industry professionals employed to ensure the best iGaming and sports betting regulated markets, OneTwenty is making big waves in the industry.

Some of their brands include bettingodds.com, horseracing.net, and topratedcasinos.co.uk. OneTwenty also owns Minimum Deposit Casinos (minimumdepositcasinos.org) and Best New Zealand Casinos (bestnewzealandcasinos.com). At Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC), gambling enthusiasts will find great bonuses activated by low deposits from $/€1. As they say, a little can go a long way, and that’s what it is at MDC. Players pay less and get access to top dollar online casinos and top-notch games. MDC has a global footprint covering the United States, Austria, Germany, South Africa, Latam, Brazil, UK, New Zealand, Canada and more.

Other categories at the iGB Awards 2024

There are 176 participating companies in the iGB Awards, indicating how much this event is needed and welcomed. The theme is Made in NYC and along with a three-course sit-down dinner, an entertainment-packed stage, and a star-studded dinner and awards evening, the annual iGB Affiliate London Awards promises to be a night to remember. Some other awards include Innovator of the Year, Marketing Campaign of the Year, and Affiliate Employer of the Year. The Game of the Year award is the top slot game which will be chosen from the Top 10 slots of the year 2021 / 2022, which are:

• Big Bass Bonanza Keeping It Reel (Pragmatic Play)
• Coin Strike Hold And Win (Playson)
• Cops N Robbers Big Money (Inspired Entertainment)
• Fishin Frenzy Even Bigger Catch (Blueprint Gaming)
• Football Cash Collect (Playtech)
• Gold Blitz (Fortune Factory Studios)
• Golden Dragon Inferno (Betsoft Gaming)
• Rip City (Hacksaw Gaming)
• Rise Of Olympus 100 (Play’n GO)
• Super Stars (NetEnt)

Recognized as one of the key networking events in the iGaming calendar, the iGB Awards categories highlight innovation, creativity, integrity and talent. Featuring a celebration of everything positive in the industry, February’s iGB Affiliate London Awards on 11,800 square metres will eclipse the success of 2022.

Dozens of delegates are expected at the red carpet affair, which promises to start 2024 with a bang.

Are Casinos Targeting Minors in The UK?

By Daniela Rose   

Responsible gambling mechanisms for minors at online casinos UK have come under the spotlight following the release of the Young People and Gambling Report 2023. The UK Gambling Commission released the year-long study during Safer Gambling Week in November.

The research was aimed at understanding young people’s exposure to and involvement in all forms of gambling in the UK. It found that 26% of youngsters aged between 16 and 17 years old spent their own money on gambling in the last 12 months. This raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing gambling regulations and safeguard mechanisms by casino operators when it comes to protecting minors.

Recommendations by the UKGC

The study provides valuable insights regarding the gambling habits of adolescents. UK online casinos are required to have sufficient safeguards in place to prevent children from illegally accessing gambling services.

The report has become an essential resource for legislators, scholars, gambling charities, and people working in the gambling industry. The government and the Commission frequently use the results of such studies for various objectives like analyzing why young people gamble and making changes to legislation if needed.

This study was carried out in schools, with students completing online self-completion surveys in class. As in previous years, data was collected from a sample of 3,453 11 16-year-olds and, for the first time, it included 17-year-olds attending institutions of higher learning and independent schools in England, Wales, and Scotland.

The study found that among the gambling activities utilized by teenagers were:

• Playing arcade games such as penny pushers and claw grabs (19%)
• Putting money on the line with friends or family (11%)
• Playing card games for real money (5%)

It found that 26% of respondents spent their own money on gambling, compared to 31% in 2022, excluding arcade gaming machines, which young people can legally play. Also, 4% of respondents spent their own money on regulated gambling, which stood at 5% in 2022.

At-risk gamblers were recognized in 1.5% of those surveyed, compared to 2.4% in 2022.

55% of respondents had seen advertisements for gambling offline, compared to 66% in 2022. At least 53% had seen ads online, from 63% in 2022. The study revealed that 0.7% of those polled were seen as problem gamblers, compared to 0.9% in 2022.

The report recommended that efforts be made to decrease younger people’s exposure to gambling and to give them the knowledge and resources they need to make educated responsible gambling decisions.

It also encourages research into the elements that contribute to problem gambling and advised that more effective preventative strategies needed to be developed. This included exploring ways to tighten age verification and proposals to:

Remove the current exemption on proof of age purchasing.

Modifying the practice code to require licensees to have systems in place that require their employees to check the age of anybody who seems to be under 25 years old.

In addition, the Commission said it would investigate the evidence surrounding land-based venues without direct staff supervision and examine whether existing standards adequately prevented underage gambling.

In media reports, the commission said the safety of adolescents remained a top concern and relevant proposals would be reviewed in the near future for potential action into the Gambling Act.

What Measures Can Parents Take to Help Their Children

As game development, social media, and online casinos UK grow in popularity, measures need to be taken to safeguard teenagers and children. The games a youngster plays on digital platforms could expose them to gambling-like systems. Children may encounter games with reward schemes similar to those found in adult-oriented gambling sites. Simulated types of gambling such as online gaming, apps, and sports bets, do not always include monetary transactions, but they can serve as a gateway to genuine gambling.

Parents play a critical role in preventing the onset of gambling tendencies why recognizing the various media influences on their children,. They should monitor how their children spend their online time to avoid the development of gambling habits.

Parents should initiate a conversation with their child or children, which should include an awareness of gambling, the ability to recognize risky behaviour, and techniques to avoid addictive habits. Here are a few measures that parents can take to help their children:

Communication is key

Inform your kids about the hazards that lurk online and what to look out for. Children begin utilizing technology as young as toddlers, so have regular talks from the start. Create an environment that is open and honest. Let your youngster or teen know you’re available to talk without passing judgment.

Make use of parental controls.

Most home internet service companies allow clients to establish parental controls. Your child’s device might have parental controls such as limiting screen time. Parents can control activities, view usage reports, and change settings. You can also restrict access to UK online casinos and regulate access to games and apps.

Set usage restrictions

You can install a free program to limit your children’s time on their smartphones. For example, the Google Family Link for Parents app allows parents to establish screen limits and manage app usage. Apple’s newest operating system (iOS 13) also includes screen time limits, app limits, and other parental usage limit settings for iPhones and iPads.

As the UK grapples with the troubling growth in underage gambling, a concerted effort is required to protect the future of the next generation. Among the organizations that can assist include the following:

• National Gambling Treatment Service – GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline provides private advice, assistance, and information about problem gambling.
• National Health Service (NHS) – Help with Gambling Addiction in the UK – You can find information about gambling addiction on the NHS website.
• National Problem Gambling Clinic – GambleAware and NHS England collaborated to commission the National Problem Gambling Clinic as part of the National Gambling Treatment Service.
• Northern Gambling Service – The NHS Northern Gambling Service offers specialized addiction treatment and recovery to persons who are addicted to gambling.
• Counselling Directory – Through the provision of a counselling support network, those experiencing distress can locate a counsellor who is both close to them and suitable for their requirements.
• Samaritans – A 24-hour service that provides discreet emotional assistance for those who are facing sadness or despair, especially feelings that could result in self-harm. 0800 116 123 is the UK helpline number.

British Columbia government in Canada funds more research into gambling harm

By Shadrack Kairu

The British Columbian government and the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has funded more research into gambling-related harm in this Canadian province. They have allocated an additional CA$1.4 million for the research and the funds will be channeled to the Center for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia (UBC) to support ongoing efforts to reduce problem gambling.

The Center for Gambling Research launched in 2014 with a focus on both problem and responsible gambling. The facility’s goals include conducting strategic, non-partisan research into the psychology of gambling behaviors and creating more effective programs and treatments to tackle gambling harm at Canada online casinos and land-based venues. Its mission is to drive evidence-based policymaking on issues relating to gambling addiction.

Over the years, the Centre has partnered with UBC’s departments of psychology, psychiatry, and Center for Brain Health in studying the connections between gambling, video gaming, and the controversial loot box mechanic in games.

It has also published hundreds of pertinent research papers on Canadian online casino operations, regulations, and management. Additionally, it has developed improved gambling addiction programs and treatments, as well as trained several graduate students and undergraduate research assistants.

Expressing gratitude for the Center’s contributions, Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General for British Columbia, was quoted as telling media: “As government continues to work toward its commitments of harm reduction and a public-health approach to preventing problem gambling, we are grateful for the work the Center for Gambling Research at UBC does.”

He noted gambling is a significant concern not just for affected individuals but also for families and communities. The Centre’s exploration of gambling harm, he said, is a commendable initiative that helps inform the development of the province’s first online gambling standards aimed at player protection.

“Its research and findings are integral to the development of policies within government and the steps we take to protect British Columbians from the harms of problem gambling,” he said.

The Center has benefited from the BCLC and government funding since its inception. The latest initiative marks the third consecutive five-year term funding that it is receiving from the government and BCLC, demonstrating a continuous commitment to promoting the responsible gambling principles of positive play for people in British Columbia.

Commenting on this new funding round, Luke Clark, director of the UBC’s Centre for Gambling Research, acknowledged the renewal of this investment showed the government and the BCLC’s commitment to enhancing programs and initiatives that support players and protect them from harmful gambling.

“This renewal shows a sustained commitment by the government and the BCLC to reducing harms that are associated with gambling in Columbia”, he was quoted as saying.

He added: “The renewal of this core funding is an endorsement of the importance of our research and the progress that we’ve made since the Centre was established five years ago.”

This financial package will enable the Center to continue its research for another period of five years. The renewed funding will allow the facility to focus on its research into modern slot-machine games, the neuroscience of people with gambling problems, and new addictive gambling technologies, including the convergence of gambling with video gaming.

The support comes at a time when interest in gambling is mounting and the regulatory framework is changing not just in British Columbia but across Canada.

Supporting players to protect them from gambling harm

BCLC has been driving the industry forward by continuously innovating more efficient strategies for addressing the cause and consequences of betting addiction. The corporation has launched a series of user-centric player protection schemes aimed at promoting player health and mitigating gambling harm.

Earlier this year, it made a raft of updates to its voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) program to curb stigma and make the scheme more approachable to players. The program, renamed Game Break, now features additional elements designed to help players experiencing gambling-related issues, seek help without judgment.

The new changes to the program include an active reinstatement process for players who choose to play again. The terms of enrolment didn’t change, with players able to enroll in Game Break for six months, one year, two years, or three years. However, individuals choosing to return to play are now required to complete an online course to determine if returning to gambling is right for them.

Essentially, BCLC’s new program aims to give players more control over their gambling habits. That’s why the program is designed to either exclude them for a period of time or help them seek relevant clinical or professional support. It is also responsible for helping individuals properly understand whether they can return to play without the risk of developing gambling-related problems.

BCLC President and CEO Pat Davis outlined the corporation’s ambitions:

“At BCLC, the well-being of our players is paramount and we’re always looking for opportunities to offer safer gambling experiences. The knowledge that we gain from the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC helps us consider enhancements to the programs and initiatives that promote player health at BCLC and beyond. We’re pleased to continue providing support to the center so its work can continue to guide the industry.”

At the same time, BCLC has entered into a new partnership with gaming machine and financial services provider Everi Holdings to support its anti-money laundering efforts in Canada.

In the new agreement, Everi will provide its Everi Anti-Money Laundering (AML) solution to support BCLC’s gaming and online operations. This includes supporting BCLC as it conducts and manages lottery, bingo, casino, and online gaming activities on behalf of the British Columbian government.

Everi Compliance is currently the most widely used and sophisticated AML software in the gaming industry with deployment in over 600 gaming properties across a range of markets.

Online tools and resources to help Canadian players

Gambling addiction is a major concern in Canada where gambling is a popular form of entertainment. To help promote responsible gambling, online casinos in Canada provide players with access to a wealth of tools and resources to help them retain control of their gambling activities. These tools and resources vary from province to province, but there are general standards available across the country.

Players in Canada will generally have the ability to set deposit and loss limits for themselves. Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to manage their bankrolls and avoid overspending. They can also establish loss limits, which restrict a player’s activity after exceeding a specified amount in losses over a specific timeframe.

Another crucial set of tools available to Canadians are time limits, time-outs, and self-exclusions. Time limits help prevent excessive gambling sessions and the harms associated with electronic gambling machines (EGMs). By setting limits on the amount of time spent at the games, individuals can avoid fatigue and poor decision-making that can lead to financial jeopardy.

Sometimes limiting the amount of time spent at games isn’t enough. In that case, players may need to take a complete break from the games. Canadian online casinos offer time-out features that allow players to block their accounts for a specified period of time, typically between 24 hours and 30 days, to give them a breather.

In extreme cases, setting time limits and time out is insufficient, and in those cases, self-exclusion comes into play. This option allows individuals to take a more decisive approach to manage their gambling behavior by voluntarily banning themselves from gaming in-person or online gambling. Self-exclusion is often implemented in cases where individuals think they are spending too much time or money gambling.

In Canada, long timeouts exceeding a year or so are also called self-exclusion. The purpose of self-exclusion is to provide players with a tool that forces a long-term break from gambling activities. In this way, individuals can break the addictive cycle and promote sustained recovery.

In addition to these tools, all provinces in Canada also partner with some form of a Responsible Gaming organization such as PlaySmart or GameSense. The websites of these organizations contain helpful resources to help control problem gambling. Other useful problem gambling resources available to Canadians include The Responsible Gambling Council and ProblemGambling.ca.

The Importance of Gamcare and responsible gambling

Having been around since the 90s, Gamcare has grown to become a meaningful organisation that pushes for responsible gambling. Gamcare targets gamblers and at-risk individuals and provides tools, resources and advice to players in need.

Today, we will explore what Gamcare does, why it is important, who benefits from it, and what it means to the online casino industry. We will also examine the rise in usage of GamCare over the last year, and what players can expect from it.

GamCare is more commonly seen across online casinos UK because it is located in this region. Global players may not be as familiar with this service if they do not play at the best rated UK online casinos. However, since Gamcare has an online platform, gamblers in other parts of the world can also make use of its guides and resources to help them should they need it.

What is GamCare?

Gamcare is a UK-based organisation that deals with social responsibility and offers a support service for gamblers. The organisation was founded by UK-born Paul Bellringer in 1997 and continues to grow and be an important part of the online gambling at top online casinos.

It is known for operating the National Gambling Helpline and is a resource that provides support and advice for people who are negatively affected by gambling, whether directly or indirectly. Gamcare focuses on encouraging safe gambling and creating awareness around social responsibility and the potential harm of gambling. It is a service, without prejudice, that offers to help gamblers and inform people about safe gambling practices.

Ambitions and Values

GamCare takes pride in its mission. It has built a knowledge hub of support and social responsibility with expert advice, specific tools and treatment, and information on responsible gambling.

Their ambitions include recognising and preventing the harmful effects of gambling, providing effective tools and support for all to access, providing access to specialised treatment, and having trusted and effective working measures. The values of Gamcare include being Collaborative, Ambitious, Learning and Leading (CALL).

Features

The best part about GamCare is not only their support in running the National Gambling Helpline, but also the multitude of features it offers users on their website.

Regarding chat services, they offer access to a vast array of platforms including a 24-hour chatline on the website, a 24-hour WhatsApp chat and Facebook Messenger chat. Furthermore, their website offers an incredible online community to help users along the way. This includes an online forum with chatrooms, which creates a real sense of togetherness.

Gamcare allows users to track progress and urges with unique support features. Gamblers can set personal goals, save materials and resources on responsible gambling, access a money management resource, use a software block to restrict themselves, or even a more severe self-exclusion method.

Strategy

GamCare displays a thorough and researched understanding of tailored support for gamblers in need of their services. They have a clear mission statement and a dedication to social responsibility. The organisation’s strategy is an interesting way to get a better understanding of what it hopes to achieve.

• The Gamcare Mission is simple – “To support those harmed by gambling through advice and treatment, and to minimise gambling-related harm through education and engagement work.” The organisation wants to grow and deliver results throughout the UK.

Based around the mission, it has embarked on a number of key activities to increase recognition of gambling harm and awareness, while creating a safer more responsible gambling experience, reduce risk, and increase treatment, support and education.

Anti Racism Statement

Quite an interesting part of GamCare and a testimony to its holistic approach is that it has an Anti-Racism Statement. This is a document that not only encourages diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, but also directly condemns racism and expresses zero tolerance for racist behaviour.

The statement goes on to include how anti-racism is integral part of its mission and journey as an organisation.

Resources

GamCare has an impressive selection of resources available to users including regular updates on news in the gambling world and the support services that can help them. The organisation gives updates on seminars and classes that are ongoing, and also reports on the number of people helped along the way.

The site also includes a library of resources at the disposal of gamblers to educate themselves. This includes reports, peer-reviewed articles, and advice from specialists. Their reports tackle more than just gambling and may even be viewed as a useful resource for social inclusivity and responsibility in how they address gender, ethnicity, pay gaps and more.

Significant Increase in players contacting Gamcare in 2022

In the past year, there has been a significant increase in casino players’ accessing GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline. There has been nearly a 5% increase in calls and over 80,000 chats and sessions with individuals.

GamCare reported an increase on all fronts – from an increase in chat services, to treatment sessions, training in prevention, and awareness for responsible gambling.

As a result, the organisation increased the range of its social responsibility in 2022 in line with the higher number of players contacting them. This includes training in responsible gambling, as well as reaching a huge audience of at-risk young people and children.

Financial Increase in Gamcare in 2022

Gamcare relies heavily on donations and charitable activities in order to provide its services. With an increase in popularity, it saw an increase in financial income, in accordance with the rise in usage. Almost £20 million was raised for GamCare, on top of investments into the organisation.

Increase in use of Gamcare services

With 25 years under its belt, the growth of this organisation means that more players are contacting Gamcare and getting the support and treatment they need. As is reflected in the GamCare strategy, the organisation aims to expand its outreach and to continue to engage with casinos to use its services.

Gamcare offers more than just chat services and treatment sessions but also provides an online platform where users can track their personal development and support their treatment process. The comprehensive tools also allow people to set goals, manage money appropriately, and be part of a community of support.

Conclusion

GamCare has been around for some time and has been dedicated to reducing risk in gambling and offering support services to those in need. It has grown significantly in the last year and hopes to continue this way in the future. The platform’s user experience continues to improve and be more refined and tailored to deliver an effective treatment to players in need. This comes with a host of tools that gamblers can make use of along the way.

The work being done by GamCare is impressive and crucial in terms of social responsibility and impact. Their mission is to help affected gamblers and at risk individuals, to reach out to young people and educate them on treatment, and to be a trusted member of the gambling community by providing people with the tools they need for development and support.