The city of Bristol is preparing to welcome a significant global gathering focused on addressing the escalating problem of gambling-related harm.
This conference, drawing in more than 150 top specialists from around the globe, seeks to elevate understanding and advocate for shifts in policy. Featured among the speakers is Peter Shilton, the renowned former goalkeeper for England, who will recount his own poignant struggle with gambling dependence. Shilton, joined by his spouse Steph, has become a prominent voice calling for enhanced assistance and oversight within the gambling sector.
Adding their perspectives to the conference are figures like Lord Foster of Bath and investigative reporter Rob Davies, recognized for his work uncovering dubious operations within the UK gambling industry.
Professionals representing a range of disciplines, including healthcare, regulatory bodies, marketing, and policy development, will convene to deliberate on this multifaceted challenge. Professor Agnes Nairn, serving as Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement at the University of Bristol and Co-Director of the Bristol Gambling Harms Research Centre, underscored the widespread nature of gambling’s detrimental effects, noting its impact on individuals from all segments of society.
Across the globe, cultural norms, support networks, and laws related to wagering vary significantly. We were privileged to convene specialists from thirteen nations to explore how rigorous, multidisciplinary research can tackle this growing problem.
A recent investigation by the University of Bristol revealed that of 11,000 promotional messages about betting sent to enthusiasts during the English Premier League’s opening weekend, only 21% incorporated responsible gaming reminders. Dr. Raffaello Rossi, a Marketing lecturer at the University of Bristol, emphasized the complete breakdown of self-governance within the betting sector.
“Numerous nations, such as Italy, Spain, Poland, the Netherlands, and Belgium, have already enacted stringent restrictions or outright prohibitions on wagering advertisements. It’s concerning that the white paper entirely disregards the necessity for tighter betting marketing rules – a measure for which there is substantial public backing.”
