1xCare launches to strengthen player protection and responsible gambling

The global gambling industry continues to place increasing emphasis on responsible gambling and player protection as regulatory expectations evolve and public awareness grows. Against this backdrop, 1xCare has officially launched as a dedicated initiative focused on advancing responsible gambling, supporting player well-being and encouraging collaboration across the wider gambling ecosystem.

Established by the owner of the global 1xBet brand, 1xCare has been introduced as a central framework that brings together research, education, technology and player support. According to the organisation, its long-term objective is to contribute to a safer and more sustainable gambling environment through evidence-based practices and partnerships with stakeholders across the industry.

The initiative states that it seeks to complement existing responsible gambling efforts rather than replace or compete with organisations already active in the field. Its activities are expected to focus on practical solutions that support player safety while encouraging knowledge sharing among industry participants.

A dedicated framework for responsible gambling

1xCare has been established with a mission to promote responsible gambling and strengthen player protection through several interconnected areas of work. The organisation intends to support research, encourage education, develop technology-driven solutions and improve access to player support services.

Its vision is to become a recognised centre of excellence for responsible gambling by encouraging cooperation between operators, researchers, regulators and specialist organisations. The initiative has stated that its work will be guided by transparency, measurable outcomes and continuous evaluation.

As responsible gambling becomes a growing priority in regulated markets around the world, initiatives that encourage cooperation across different sectors may play an important role in supporting long-term industry development.

Growing attention on player protection

The launch of 1xCare reflects broader developments within the gambling sector where player protection continues to receive increasing attention from governments, regulators and operators.

Many jurisdictions have introduced stronger responsible gambling requirements over recent years. These include enhanced customer protection measures, affordability assessments in certain markets, improved self-exclusion systems and greater emphasis on early identification of gambling-related harm.

Technology has also become an increasingly important part of responsible gambling strategies. Modern analytical tools can help identify behavioural patterns that may indicate elevated risk, allowing operators to introduce appropriate interventions where permitted by applicable regulations.

Within this changing environment, organisations focused on research and collaboration have become an increasingly visible part of the wider responsible gambling landscape.

Four strategic pillars

According to the announcement, 1xCare's activities are organised around four primary pillars that together form the foundation of its operational strategy.

Research Hub

The first pillar focuses on supporting evidence-based research into gambling behaviour, addiction risks and emerging technologies.

Research is expected to provide data that can help improve understanding of gambling-related issues while contributing to informed decision making across the industry. The initiative also intends to publish transparent reports on its activities and findings where appropriate.

By encouraging independent research and knowledge sharing, the organisation aims to contribute to a stronger evidence base for responsible gambling practices.

EduCare

Education represents the second pillar of the initiative.

Through EduCare, 1xCare plans to promote responsible gambling awareness programmes and educational resources designed for operators, sports organisations and communities.

Educational initiatives can help players better understand gambling risks while encouraging operators to maintain ethical standards and responsible practices. Increasing awareness among industry professionals may also contribute to improved consumer protection over time.

TechShield

Technology forms the third strategic pillar through the TechShield programme.

The initiative intends to encourage the development and adoption of responsible gambling technologies that support safer player experiences. This includes exploring tools designed for early risk detection and responsible gambling interventions.

As data analytics and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, technological innovation has become an increasingly significant area of interest for many organisations working to improve player protection.

The effectiveness of any technology-based solution depends on multiple factors including implementation, regulatory compliance and ongoing evaluation.

Support and well-being

The fourth pillar focuses on expanding access to support services for individuals who may require assistance.

According to the announcement, 1xCare plans to improve access to counselling services, helplines and broader well-being initiatives through grants and partnerships with qualified organisations.

Support services remain an important element of responsible gambling strategies because they provide practical assistance for individuals experiencing gambling-related difficulties. Collaboration with experienced organisations may also help ensure that support programmes are delivered by appropriately qualified professionals.

Governance and transparency

1xCare states that it has established dedicated governance structures, including an advisory committee, to oversee its activities.

The organisation also intends to publish regular updates outlining the impact of its initiatives. Such reporting may help improve transparency regarding programme development, partnerships and ongoing projects.

Transparent governance has become an increasingly important consideration for organisations involved in responsible gambling initiatives, particularly where collaboration with regulators, researchers and public interest groups is concerned.

According to the announcement, funded initiatives will seek to encourage cooperation among regulatory authorities, academic researchers and civil society organisations.

Leadership outlines the initiative's purpose

Commenting on the launch, Simon Westbury, chairperson of 1xCare, highlighted the organisation's objectives.

“Responsible gambling is not a slogan; it is a duty,” said Simon Westbury, chairperson. “1xCare was created to support a more informed, transparent and sustainable gambling ecosystem – one where player protection and well-being are central.”

The statement reflects the organisation's intention to position responsible gambling as an ongoing operational priority rather than a standalone initiative.

Westbury also emphasised the importance of collaboration across the industry.

“1xCare is built to contribute, not to compete,” added Westbury. “We look forward to working alongside existing experts and organisations that share the goal of better protecting players and building greater trust in the industry.”

Collaboration across the gambling ecosystem

Responsible gambling continues to involve cooperation between numerous stakeholders including gambling operators, regulators, healthcare professionals, academic researchers and specialist support organisations.

No single organisation can address every aspect of gambling-related harm independently. Instead, many responsible gambling initiatives increasingly rely on shared expertise, research partnerships and coordinated educational efforts.

The launch of 1xCare reflects this collaborative approach by highlighting partnerships as a central part of its long-term strategy.

As regulatory frameworks continue to develop internationally, collaborative programmes may contribute to the exchange of research findings, technological innovation and best practices aimed at improving consumer protection.

Looking ahead

The launch of 1xCare represents the introduction of a new initiative dedicated to responsible gambling, player protection and harm prevention within the global gambling industry.

According to the information released at launch, the organisation intends to focus on evidence-based research, education, technology development and access to support services while working alongside established experts and organisations.

Its future impact will depend on the implementation of its programmes, the effectiveness of its partnerships and the measurable outcomes achieved through its initiatives over time.

As responsible gambling continues to remain a key area of focus across regulated gambling markets, collaborative frameworks such as 1xCare may contribute to broader industry discussions surrounding player safety, responsible gaming practices and sustainable sector development.

Conclusion

The establishment of 1xCare signals an additional effort within the gambling industry to support responsible gambling and strengthen player protection through research, education, technology and collaboration. The initiative has outlined an ambition to work alongside regulators, researchers and specialist organisations while promoting transparency and evidence-based practices. As the industry continues to evolve under increasing regulatory scrutiny, sustained cooperation and measurable outcomes will remain important factors in assessing the contribution of initiatives such as 1xCare to the wider responsible gambling landscape.

FAQs

What is 1xCare?
1xCare is an initiative focused on promoting player protection, responsible gambling, research, education and harm prevention across the global gambling ecosystem.

Who established 1xCare?
According to the announcement, 1xCare was established by the owner of the global 1xBet brand.

What is the main goal of 1xCare?
Its stated goal is to advance responsible gambling through research, education, technology and collaborative partnerships.

What are the four pillars of 1xCare?
The four pillars are Research Hub, EduCare, TechShield and Support and Well-Being.

Will 1xCare conduct research?
Yes. The initiative plans to support evidence-based studies on gambling behaviour, addiction risks and emerging technologies.

Does 1xCare provide educational programmes?
Yes. Through EduCare, the organisation intends to promote responsible gambling awareness and educational initiatives.

How does TechShield support responsible gambling?
TechShield focuses on developing and encouraging technology that helps identify risks early and supports safer gambling experiences.

Will 1xCare work with other organisations?
Yes. The initiative has stated that it aims to collaborate with regulators, researchers and qualified organisations rather than compete with them.

Will 1xCare publish updates about its work?
According to the announcement, the organisation plans to publish regular impact updates regarding its activities.

Why is responsible gambling important?
Responsible gambling initiatives aim to promote safer gambling environments, improve player protection and support individuals who may experience gambling-related harm.