In a recent blog published on the 888 site in collaboration with Marck McCaffrey, Head of Compliance Policy, Retail & Sportsbook at William Hill, both brands reflected on Safer Gambling Week, specifically focusing on safer gambling practices in retail settings.

The blog highlighted the distinct advantages of in-person safeguarding, emphasizing the importance of staff’s ability to observe subtle changes during direct customer interactions.

One notable initiative introduced by William Hill involved implementing a new system enabling staff to report changes in customer behavior, such as alterations in spending habits, frequency of visits, or time spent gambling. This system acts as an early and personalized warning mechanism, providing a level of awareness that may not be as easily discerned by online operators.

Additionally, staff members are now able to document customer interactions and decisions in an updated system. The operator also adopted a new affordability approach, empowering staff to engage in conversations with customers to ensure their gaming activities remain within sustainable limits.

Looking ahead to 2024, the blog post outlined forthcoming technology-driven solutions designed to identify markers against a harm model, ultimately supporting staff decisions in promoting safer gambling practices.

In a related development, 888 partnered with BetKnowMore to introduce a new training program for its Cluster Operations Managers (COMSs).

888 and William Hill are not the only operators highlighting responsible gambling this week. For its part, BetMGM conducted research shedding light on the financial perspectives of UK gamblers. Key findings from BetMGM’s research include the observation that 51% of UK gamblers perceive the money in their gambling accounts differently from that in their bank accounts.

Additionally, 92% of players aged 18-24 impose monetary restrictions on their gambling activities, and 46% allocate money won from gambling into their savings. The research also noted that 26% use gambling winnings to place immediate bets, while 19% always or usually chase their gambling losses.