CGF raises concerns over UKGC’s affordability check data

The Gamblers Consumer Forum (GCF) has raised concerns about the data presented by the UK Gambling Commission regarding the potential impact of affordability checks on gamblers.

In a letter to the UK Statistics Authority, the GCF seeks clarification on the claim that over one million accounts could be affected by these checks and requests insight into the statistical methodology employed by the Gambling Commission.

The GCF questions whether these figures are being conveyed in the necessary context, given their significant influence on government policy.

The proposed policy changes are based on the assertion that only 3% of betting accounts would undergo checks, a claim repeatedly made by the CEO of the UK Gambling Commission.

This percentage is used to both justify affordability checks and promote the concept of “frictionless” checks, despite practical challenges.

According to the Commission’s consultation papers, approximately 600,000 accounts will undergo checks due to binge gambling, with an additional one million accounts facing scrutiny for “significant losses over time.”

The GCF seeks confirmation on whether more than one million accounts will be subject to enhanced checks and asks for clarification on the basis of the 3% claim.

The GCF argues that the 3% figure is being used to support the idea that affordability checks effectively combat addiction, despite a lack of evidence.

They also contend that the use of these figures by the Commission distracts from clinically proven addiction treatment methods and undermines trust in the consultation process.

The GCF anticipates a response from the UK Statistics Authority to address these concerns.

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