New training launched to fight crime in UK gambling

Two leading organisations within the UK’s gambling landscape—RG24seven Virtual Training, part of the BMM Innovation Group, and Better Change, a champion of Positive Play principles—have jointly launched a specialised training initiative designed exclusively for professionals working in the UK's regulated gambling industry. This newly launched initiative addresses a growing need for industry-wide education around crime prevention and regulatory compliance.

The programme includes three core training modules, each addressing a critical risk area within the gambling ecosystem: Anti-Bribery and Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Data Protection. With these additions, RG24seven and Better Change reaffirm their commitment to improving standards, mitigating risks, and promoting a culture of accountability across the sector.

Meeting urgent demand for structured compliance education

The new training courses were developed in direct response to an overwhelming demand from gambling operators and staff following the rollout of RG24seven’s earlier “UK Safer Gambling” training programme. That initial launch served as a pivotal moment, reflecting the industry's increasing awareness of its responsibilities beyond entertainment—particularly its obligation to uphold legal and ethical standards.

“The industry’s overwhelmingly positive response to the creation of our UK Safer Gambling training was immediately followed with a wave of requests for similar engaging and comprehensive education on how to keep crime out of gambling,” said Wendy Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of RG24seven Virtual.

As regulatory scrutiny increases and compliance requirements grow more complex, the need for consistent, reliable training across all levels of an organisation has become not just beneficial—but essential. The courses aim to provide employees, from entry-level staff to executive leadership, with the tools and understanding needed to prevent illicit activity and protect both the organisation and the end consumer.

Aligning with national regulatory priorities

The training is carefully aligned with the compliance expectations set forth by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This includes adherence to regulations designed to prevent criminal infiltration of gambling businesses, safeguard customer data, and promote fair and ethical practices.

Each course is designed to be practical and scenario-driven, reflecting the real-world challenges operators face. By simulating complex situations through case studies and interactive content, the programme reinforces learning and helps participants develop both awareness and appropriate response strategies.

Anderson further emphasised that the courses are not just educational—they are empowering:

“We are very pleased to meet the demand for high-quality and effective training to empower those working in the UK, specifically on the important topic of how to keep crime out of gambling and protect operators, regulators, and most important, players.”

Built through industry-wide collaboration

A distinguishing feature of this initiative is the way it was developed. Instead of relying solely on theoretical frameworks or outsourced instructional designers, RG24seven and Better Change opted for an industry-sourced model, enlisting input and expertise from major UK gambling organisations. Key contributors include Grace Media, Hippodrome, Luxury Leisure, Metropolitan Gaming, and Midnite.

This collaborative process ensured the training content was highly relevant, reflective of on-the-ground realities, and well-aligned with operational practices. It also created a sense of collective responsibility among stakeholders to raise standards and prevent bad actors from exploiting weaknesses in the system.

“By bringing together the top experts in the industry, we are sharing the combined knowledge, experience, and expertise to ensure that the gaming industry is safe, sustainable, and fun. We invite all UK gaming organisations to register to gain access to our world-class training for all of their employees,” said Victoria Reed, Founder and CEO of Better Change.

Detailed look at the three core training modules

The training curriculum is structured into three focused modules, each addressing a critical area of risk within the gambling sector:

Anti-bribery and corruption

In a tightly regulated industry like gambling, even minor violations can lead to severe penalties or loss of licensure. The Anti-Bribery and Corruption course helps employees understand what constitutes bribery, how it manifests in daily operations, and the steps necessary to prevent such behavior. It also guides participants in reporting procedures and red flag identification, which are critical for internal audits and regulatory reporting.

This module underscores the importance of ethical conduct, integrity, and personal responsibility in maintaining the reputation and operational legality of gambling operators.

Anti-money laundering (AML)

AML compliance remains one of the most pressing concerns for the gambling sector, particularly as criminals increasingly target online and retail betting outlets for laundering illicit funds. This module provides employees with up-to-date knowledge on AML laws, customer due diligence (CDD) practices, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting.

Importantly, it translates complex legal frameworks into digestible guidance that can be implemented at all levels of an organisation—from cashiers to compliance officers.

Data protection and cybersecurity

With the volume of personal and financial data handled by gambling operators, breaches can have catastrophic implications. This training module focuses on the legal responsibilities outlined in the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and other applicable data protection laws. It also touches on cybersecurity basics, phishing prevention, and secure data handling protocols.

By empowering employees with knowledge in this domain, operators can mitigate the risk of reputational damage and legal action resulting from data mismanagement.

Designed for accessibility and engagement

What sets this programme apart is not only the quality of the content but also its accessibility and user-friendly design. The courses are delivered via RG24seven’s virtual training platform, making them available on demand and across devices. This allows for flexible training schedules, seamless integration into onboarding processes, and scalability across departments.

“The success of the training goes beyond its high quality; it resonates with learners because it’s accessible, easy-to-use, and most importantly, created by the industry, for the industry,” noted Reed.

This “industry for the industry” ethos has been a core principle in the development process, ensuring the training resonates with staff across different roles, from customer support agents to senior compliance managers.

Reaffirming the role of ethics in gambling

As the gambling sector grows—particularly in the online space—so do the risks associated with money laundering, cybercrime, and unethical practices. Training initiatives like this are a vital component in creating a more transparent and responsible industry.

They also reflect a broader shift in how gambling operators approach their social responsibilities. No longer is compliance seen as a box-ticking exercise; it is increasingly viewed as an integral part of doing business in a regulated environment.

By investing in education and professional development, operators not only comply with existing laws but also future-proof themselves against changes in legislation and emerging threats.

A model for other jurisdictions?

Although designed for the UK market, the RG24seven and Better Change programme could serve as a template for international markets. Many of the issues it addresses—financial crime, data security, ethical conduct—are universal in nature. Industry observers suggest that similar collaborative training efforts could improve standards in emerging and mature gambling markets alike.

With growing pressure from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the general public, the industry must continue to adapt. Initiatives like this mark a step in the right direction, fostering a culture where compliance, ethics, and player protection are not only prioritised but actively promoted.

Looking to the future

As the landscape of gambling continues to evolve—with new technologies, platforms, and regulatory expectations—so too must the tools used to educate and protect those within it. The partnership between RG24seven and Better Change sets a precedent for how innovation, collaboration, and responsibility can intersect to drive meaningful change.

More modules are expected to follow in the coming months, potentially covering areas like responsible marketing, safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and inclusive workplace practices. These expansions will further contribute to the goal of creating a more responsible, resilient, and respected gambling industry in the UK and beyond.

Conclusion

The introduction of the new training programme by RG24seven Virtual Training and Better Change represents a crucial advancement in the UK gambling industry's ongoing efforts to uphold integrity, safeguard players, and ensure regulatory compliance. By addressing critical areas such as anti-bribery and corruption, anti-money laundering, and data protection, the initiative not only equips employees with the tools they need to recognize and prevent criminal activity but also reinforces a broader cultural shift toward ethical responsibility within the sector.

Developed through collaboration with some of the UK’s most respected gambling organisations, this training initiative sets a new benchmark for industry-led education. Its practical, accessible, and scenario-based approach makes it an effective resource for businesses committed to operating transparently and responsibly.

As gambling continues to evolve in both technological and regulatory complexity, programmes like this are essential to fostering a sustainable and trustworthy industry. In empowering staff with essential knowledge and skills, RG24seven and Better Change are helping to ensure that the UK gambling market remains a safe, compliant, and forward-looking environment for all stakeholders—from regulators and operators to the players they serve.

FAQs

What is RG24seven Virtual Training?
RG24seven is an online training platform owned by BMM Innovation Group, offering regulatory and compliance courses to the gambling industry.

Who is Better Change?
Better Change is a UK-based organisation that promotes responsible gambling practices and Positive Play initiatives.

What topics are covered in the new training?
The training covers Anti-Bribery and Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering, and Data Protection.

Is the training only for UK companies?
Yes, the current programme is specifically tailored for the UK gambling market and its regulatory framework.

Who developed the course content?
The courses were developed collaboratively with experts from companies such as Grace Media, Hippodrome, and Metropolitan Gaming.

Is the training mandatory?
While not legally mandatory, the training helps companies meet UK Gambling Commission expectations and avoid compliance issues.

How is the training delivered?
The courses are delivered online, making them accessible to all employees regardless of location or role.

What makes this training different?
It is created by industry professionals for the industry, ensuring content is relevant, engaging, and practical.

How can companies register?
UK gambling companies can sign up via RG24seven’s website or contact Better Change for access.

Will there be future training modules?
Yes, the organisations plan to expand the programme with additional modules on other key compliance and ethical topics.