GambleAware CEO Weighs in on Statutory Levy Consultations
Date: 2024-01-06 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: EVENTS
GambleAware's CEO, Zoë Osmond, has welcomed the statutory levy consultations, which mandate UK gambling operators to allocate a portion of their revenues for gambling harm research and treatment. This long-awaited measure brings much-needed financial security to the charity sector, moving away from voluntary donations.
Osmond emphasized that the levy has the potential to transform the charity sector and increase access to gambling harm treatment across the UK. However, she highlighted several concerns with the proposed approach.
Osmond called for the creation of a National Strategy for the Prevention and Treatment of Gambling Harms, believing it essential for a comprehensive approach. She also advocated for a single Prevention and Treatment Commissioner to enhance awareness and accessibility of treatment services.
Furthermore, Osmond stressed the importance of equal focus on prevention and treatment, calling for additional funding in prevention efforts. She recommended co-commissioning prevention interventions and expanding the Prevention Commissioner's role to include public awareness campaigns and digital early interventions.
Lastly, Osmond urged a smooth transition to the new system to avoid disrupting funding for the third sector and service availability.
In conclusion, GambleAware's CEO hopes that her concerns will be addressed to fully realize the transformational potential of the levy.
