BETTER CHANGE
Self-Exclusion from Gambling: A Path to Recovery and Responsible Gaming
Better Change founder, Victoria Reed, looks at self-exclusion and examines what it actually means.
G
ambling has been a popular form of entertainment for centuries, offering excitement and the possibility of fi nancial gain. However, as we’re well aware, for some individuals, gambling can become a compulsive and destructive behaviour leading to
fi nancial stress, strained relationships, and emotional distress. In response to this issue, many countries and jurisdictions have implemented self-exclusion programmes as a way to help individuals regain control over their gambling habits. Last month, many of us were in Barcelona for SBC and I was
honoured to be invited by Casino Guru to be a part of a working group they had assembled to look into best practice when it comes to Self Exclusions. Over the course of the next year, as a group, we’re going to be
exploring the concept of self-exclusion from every angle including its benefi ts, challenges, and the role it plays in promoting responsible gaming in order to deliver a set of best practice recommendations which can utilised globally. The fi rst day was simply incredible. Dr Margaret Curran from
London’s City University is leading the work assisted by members of the public, treatment providers, those with lived experience, industry veterans and researchers. It became hugely apparent that the scope of our work was going to be far bigger than any of us imagined. The more we discussed it, the more we realised that we needed to get right back to basics and truly try to understand Self Exclusion. So what does self-exclusion actually mean? In general, it is a
voluntary program that allows individuals to ban themselves from entering gambling establishments or accessing online gambling platforms for a specifi ed period. This period can range from a few months to several years, depending on the individual’s preferences and the regulations in place within their jurisdiction. The primary goal of self-exclusion is to provide a supportive framework for those struggling with problem gambling, enabling them to break the cycle of addiction, regain fi nancial stability, and repair relationships affected by their gambling habits. Self-exclusion programs are typically offered by casinos,
betting shops, and online gambling operators. To participate, individuals must sign an agreement and provide personal information to be added to a self-exclusion list. Once on the list, they are prohibited from gambling at the participating establishments during the self-exclusion period. In many cases, the individual’s information is also shared with other gambling operators to ensure a comprehensive exclusion. We looked at some of the benefi ts of self-exclusion and
determined that it provides: • A Supportive Environment: Self-exclusion programmes provide a structured and supportive environment for
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individuals seeking to limit or overcome gambling harm. The tool acknowledges that addiction is a medical condition and not a moral failing, which can help reduce the stigma associated with problem gambling.
• Immediate Barriers: Self-exclusion creates immediate barriers to accessing gambling venues or websites. It reduces the temptation to gamble, making it more diffi cult for individuals to act on impulse.
• Financial Control: By self-excluding, individuals gain better control over their fi nances. They prevent themselves from spending money on gambling, allowing them to pay off debts, meet existing fi nancial obligations and regain fi nancial stability.
• Time for Refl ection: The self-exclusion period provides individuals with a chance to refl ect on their gambling habits, triggers, and consequences. This self-awareness is crucial for long-term recovery.
• Rebuilding Relationships: Problem gambling often strains relationships with friends, family and sometimes even in the workplace. Self-exclusion gives individuals the opportunity to rebuild trust and repair damaged connections.
• Access to Support Services: Many self-exclusion programmes signpost to sources of further help and in some places, they even offer access to counselling, helping individuals address the underlying issues that contribute to their gambling addiction.
While self-exclusion undoubtably offers numerous benefi ts, it’s not without its challenges and limitations. • Enforcement: Enforcing self-exclusion can be diffi cult, especially in the case of online gambling. Individuals can create new accounts or fi nd alternative gambling options, making it challenging to completely block access.
• Relapse: Some individuals may relapse and attempt to gamble despite being on the self-exclusion list. This can lead to feelings of guilt and failure, potentially discouraging them from seeking further help.
• Lack of Universal Coverage: Self-exclusion programs are not available everywhere, and the extent of coverage can vary from one jurisdiction to another. This leaves some individuals without access to this valuable resource.
• Duration Limitations: The predetermined duration of self-exclusion may not be suffi cient for some individuals to achieve lasting recovery. Extended or indefi nite self-exclusion options are not always available.
• Privacy Concerns: Individuals may be hesitant to participate in self-exclusion programs due to concerns about the privacy and security of their personal information. Some people working in the industry even commented that should they ever feel the need to self exclude, they worry about the
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