UK Gambling Commission Report Reveals High-Risk Gambling Types

Different gambling activities usually impact individuals differently with some being more likely to result in harm than others. In the UK, the impact of gambling on individuals is measured via the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) which indicates if a certain gambler may be affected by harm.

Gambling activities are also assigned to PGSI, which helps identify which types of gambling can lead to increased harm and which can be considered less harmful. In a recent report, the UK’s gambling regulator, the Gambling Commission, highlighted a number of gambling activities recognized as high risk.

Many Popular Gambling Activities Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Harm

Notably, a PGSI of 8 or above is considered to have negative consequences and may lead to a person losing control or signaling that they have already lost control of their gambling. The Commission’s Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) Year 1 report from 2023 identified that casino gambling, both in person and online, online fruit games and slots, as well as betting on sports competitions, regardless if online or in person, had a PGSI score of 8 or more.

However, the regulator acknowledged the importance of further analysis, particularly regarding factors that can explain why certain products are associated with greater risk. As a result, the Commission released the “Exploring the relationship between gambling activities and Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) scores” report, uncovering key insights about the impact of certain gambling activities.

Including a broader gambling involvement, demographic and factors such as socio-economic status, the new analysis concluded that betting, in person and online, casino gambling, both in person and online, slot and fruit machine gambling, online and in person, as well as non-National Lottery scratchcards and online instant games, are all associated with PGSI score of 8 or more. In other words, such activities are associated with a higher risk of harm and addiction.

Interestingly, the latest analysis highlighted that betting on non-sports events and betting on races/sports in person, were associated with PGSI score of 8 or more. While why this is happening is unclear, it is surprising, considering that usually, gambling activities that tend to be more addictive are “faster, continuous gambling formats,” as explained by the Commission, which pointed to online instant wins, slots and casino games as an example.

Analysis of the Market Continues

According to the Commission, replication of the latest analysis and subsequent GSGB data will undoubtedly help deliver a clearer picture of the relationship between gambling activities and problem gambling. Still, it’s important to note that such research requires an ongoing analysis as the gambling landscape, while slowly, changes.

The recent report follows announced changes to deposit limits and enhanced player fund protection. The Commission confirmed the changes earlier this week and the new rules are seeking to protect consumers while enabling them to control their spending. Not unexpectedly, the changes are in line with the 2023 White Paper review. Late last month, the gambling watchdog also confirmed the third round of White Paper consultations.