Andy Boucher Appointed Chair of GambleAware

GambleAware, the leading independent gambling harm prevention charity in Great Britain, has announced the appointment of Andy Boucher as its new Chair of Trustees. The transition comes at a pivotal moment for the organization as it navigates significant changes in the gambling regulation landscape, including the introduction of the new statutory levy on April 1, 2025.

Andy Boucher’s Background and Commitment to Social Issues

Mr. Boucher brings a wealth of experience in financial services, governance, and social mobility initiatives. As a chartered accountant and former senior partner in professional services, he has long been an advocate for addressing social inequality and fostering better collaboration between businesses and community organizations.

His dedication to social causes extends beyond his role at GambleAware. He currently serves as:

• Chair of Sir George Monoux Sixth Form College, a London-based educational institution focused on supporting students from diverse backgrounds.
• London Place Director for Business in the Community, a charitable network working to create a fairer and more sustainable society.
• Partnership Director for the Social Mobility Business Partnership, an initiative aimed at increasing opportunities for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Vice Chair and Honorary Secretary of Making the Leap, a charity focused on social mobility and empowering young people.

Boucher has been a valuable member of GambleAware’s Board of Trustees since December 2023 and has played a crucial role in shaping the charity’s approach to tackling gambling-related harms.

Transition in Leadership: Professor Siân Griffiths CBE Steps Down

Boucher succeeds Professor Siân Griffiths CBE, who has served as a GambleAware trustee since 2017 and has been instrumental in guiding the charity through a period of significant growth and change. She will officially step down from her role as Chair on April 1, 2025, coinciding with the implementation of the statutory levy on gambling operators.

Reflecting on her tenure, Professor Griffiths stated:

“Gambling harms are a serious public health challenge, intertwined with inequalities and poverty. They occur across all walks of life and can affect anyone. By working in partnership with others and listening to the voice of the lived experience community, I hope an evidence-led, population-health approach, supported by appropriate statutory funding, will prevent and reduce harm for all those affected.”

She expressed gratitude to colleagues within GambleAware and the wider sector, highlighting the collaborative efforts that have driven progress in tackling gambling-related harm.

“As I retire, I wish to thank all those in the charity and the wider sector for all that they do. I have worked closely with Andy in his role as Deputy Chair and offer him my full support and confidence as he leads the charity through the forthcoming period of transition. I wish to thank all GambleAware staff for their continued commitment and wish them every success in the future.”

A Crucial Period for GambleAware and the Future of Gambling Harm Prevention

Mr. Boucher acknowledges the significance of this transition period, emphasizing the importance of continuity and maintaining the effectiveness of existing services. He stated:

“First of all, I want to express huge gratitude to Siân for the immense contribution she has made over the last eight years. It is a critical time to be taking on this role as Chair of GambleAware, and I am looking forward to leading the charity through this period of change.”

With the introduction of the statutory levy, GambleAware is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of gambling harm prevention in the UK. The levy aims to provide sustainable funding for treatment, research, and education programs, ensuring that resources are available to support individuals affected by gambling-related harms.

Boucher reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition, stating:

“My priority will be to ensure that there is no degradation of services or programs during the transition and that the invaluable assets and unparalleled expertise of our staff continue to benefit the system and those we are all here to support.”

The Future of GambleAware’s Mission

GambleAware has long been at the forefront of gambling harm prevention, working with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and lived-experience communities to develop evidence-based solutions. Under Boucher’s leadership, the organization aims to:

• Strengthen partnerships with government bodies, public health institutions, and advocacy groups.
• Ensure that funding from the statutory levy is allocated effectively to support research, education, and treatment initiatives.
• Continue engaging with individuals who have experienced gambling-related harm to inform future strategies.
• Advocate for policy changes that promote responsible gambling and minimize risks for vulnerable populations.

Boucher emphasized the importance of a unified approach to tackling gambling harms, stating:

“GambleAware has a key role during this transition period, and I will continue to build on this and help unify the voice of organizations involved in gambling harm prevention within the new world.”

Conclusion

As GambleAware embarks on this new chapter under Andy Boucher’s leadership, the charity remains committed to its mission of preventing and reducing gambling-related harms. With the upcoming introduction of the statutory levy, the organization is poised to strengthen its impact, ensuring that sustainable resources and evidence-based interventions are in place to support those affected by gambling addiction and associated challenges.

FAQs

What is GambleAware, and what does it do?
GambleAware is an independent UK charity that works to prevent and reduce gambling-related harm through education, treatment, and research initiatives.

Who is Andy Boucher, and why was he appointed Chair of GambleAware?
Andy Boucher is a chartered accountant and advocate for social mobility. He was appointed Chair due to his leadership experience and commitment to tackling social inequalities.

When does Andy Boucher take over as Chair of GambleAware?
He will officially assume the role on April 1, 2025, succeeding Professor Siân Griffiths CBE.

Why is Professor Siân Griffiths stepping down as Chair?
She is retiring after serving as a trustee since 2017 and as Chair of GambleAware, contributing significantly to the organization’s mission.

What is the statutory levy on gambling, and why is it important?
The statutory levy is a mandatory contribution from gambling operators to fund research, education, and treatment of gambling-related harms.

How will the statutory levy impact GambleAware’s work?
It will provide sustainable funding to support the charity’s initiatives, ensuring long-term resources for gambling harm prevention and treatment.

What are Andy Boucher’s priorities as the new Chair of GambleAware?
His key priorities include ensuring a smooth transition, maintaining existing services, and strengthening partnerships in the gambling harm prevention sector.

How does GambleAware help individuals affected by gambling addiction?
The charity funds treatment programs, provides educational resources, and supports research to address gambling-related harm effectively.

Will the introduction of the statutory levy change GambleAware’s funding model?
Yes, the charity will transition from voluntary industry contributions to a regulated funding structure through the statutory levy.

How can individuals seek support for gambling-related harm?
GambleAware offers resources and directs individuals to confidential support services, including helplines and professional treatment programs.