UK Gambling Commission closes Advisory Board for Safer Gambling

The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) has formally announced the closure of the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling (ABSG). This decision follows the conclusion of the board’s original mandate, which was primarily focused on supporting and overseeing the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms. With the successful delivery of the strategy’s milestones, the Commission has determined that ABSG’s role has been fulfilled and that the time has come to transition towards new arrangements that align with the next phase of regulatory and research activity.

Background to the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling

The Advisory Board for Safer Gambling (ABSG) was formed as an autonomous advisory panel reporting to the UK Gambling Commission. Its primary purpose was to provide oversight, challenge, and constructive input to ensure that the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms was effectively implemented. The board acted as a source of independent expertise, helping to hold the Commission accountable and ensuring that gambling-related harm was addressed through evidence-based measures.

From its inception, ABSG worked closely with policymakers, industry representatives, public health experts, and individuals with lived experience of gambling harms. Its input was regarded as central in shaping the way the Commission approached gambling harms as both a regulatory and public health issue.

Key contributions of ABSG

Over the years, ABSG played a crucial role in advancing the discussion around gambling harms. Its contributions can be summarised under several key achievements:

Recognition of gambling harms as a public health issue

One of ABSG’s lasting impacts has been the framing of gambling-related harm not merely as a regulatory or consumer protection matter, but as a public health concern. This shift allowed policymakers and public health organisations to approach the issue in the same way as other forms of addiction or harmful behaviour, giving it greater weight and recognition in national policy debates.

Inclusion of lived experience voices

The Advisory Board was also instrumental in ensuring that individuals with direct experience of gambling-related harm were able to contribute to regulatory conversations. ABSG supported the creation of the Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP), which gave affected individuals a structured platform to share their perspectives, ensuring that policy was not developed in isolation from those it sought to protect.

Support for a statutory levy

A further key achievement of ABSG was its advocacy for implementing a statutory levy designed to finance independent research, educational initiatives, and treatment programs. This funding model is designed to ensure that financial resources are sustainably directed towards initiatives aimed at reducing harm, while remaining independent from the influence of the gambling industry.

Transition towards a new research-focused group

After ABSG’s closure, the Gambling Commission revealed plans to form a new expert group dedicated to research. The new body will play a pivotal role in shaping how levy funding is directed towards evidence-based research projects. By focusing on academic rigor and independence, this group is expected to provide the Commission with reliable insights to guide the next generation of regulatory policies.

The statutory levy, once fully operational, will significantly expand the scope and scale of gambling-related research in the UK. This development represents an important shift in how gambling regulation will be informed, moving away from voluntary arrangements towards a more structured and sustainable framework.

Statements from the Gambling Commission

Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive

Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, acknowledged the achievements of the Advisory Board, saying:

“ABSG has played an important role in shaping how we think about gambling harms, and embedding lived experience perspectives into regulation. I want to thank all current and former members for their contribution and commitment.

As we move into a new phase with the implementation of research programmes funded by the statutory levy, our priority is to ensure we have the right expert input to help inform our work. This is the right time to close ABSG and establish new arrangements that reflect the future needs of our gambling regulation and research.”

Helen Child, Head of Governance

Helen Child, Head of Governance at the Gambling Commission, also expressed her gratitude:

“ABSG have made a huge contribution to gambling regulation and the Commission. I am grateful for the insight, engagement and challenge each and every member has provided.”

Broader implications for gambling regulation in the UK

The closure of ABSG does not signal a reduction in the Commission’s commitment to tackling gambling harms. On the contrary, it marks a transition to a more research-driven, evidence-based model of regulation. The establishment of a new research expert group underscores the Commission’s intent to strengthen the role of independent scholarship and public health expertise in shaping gambling policy.

This change also reflects the evolving landscape of gambling regulation. With the rapid expansion of online gambling and the growing complexity of gambling products, regulators face increasing challenges in keeping policies up to date. Research will therefore play a crucial role in ensuring that regulation remains effective, proportionate, and responsive to emerging risks.

Challenges that remain ahead

While the achievements of ABSG are widely acknowledged, the Commission now faces significant challenges as it seeks to build upon that legacy. Key challenges include:

• Ensuring the statutory levy is implemented effectively and transparently.
• Building trust with stakeholders, including individuals with lived experience, public health bodies, and the wider public.
• Addressing new risks associated with technological change, such as mobile betting apps, artificial intelligence in gaming, and the rise of digital advertising.
• Balancing the interests of consumers, operators, and public health priorities in an increasingly globalised gambling market.

The importance of continuity in safer gambling measures

Experts have highlighted the importance of ensuring that the transition from ABSG to the new research group does not create gaps in oversight or weaken existing initiatives. While the Commission has emphasised continuity, the success of the new arrangements will depend on maintaining close collaboration with public health organisations, researchers, and individuals with lived experience.

In particular, the work of LEAP is expected to remain central to the Commission’s approach, ensuring that the voices of those affected by gambling harms continue to influence decision-making.

Looking to the future of UK gambling policy

The closure of ABSG and the creation of a new research-focused group mark a turning point in UK gambling regulation. The Gambling Commission is clearly positioning itself to rely more heavily on academic research and independent expertise, supported by sustainable funding from the statutory levy.

If successful, this approach could help the UK establish itself as a global leader in evidence-based gambling regulation. It could also serve as a model for other jurisdictions grappling with similar challenges, particularly as online gambling continues to grow worldwide.

Conclusion

The closure of the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling represents the end of one chapter in the United Kingdom’s efforts to reduce gambling-related harms, while simultaneously opening another. ABSG’s legacy lies in reframing gambling harms as a public health issue, ensuring that lived experiences are heard in policymaking, and supporting the creation of sustainable funding through the statutory levy. These achievements have laid a foundation that the Gambling Commission now seeks to build upon with a new research-focused expert group.

By prioritising independent evidence, transparent funding, and collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, the Commission is positioning itself to address the evolving challenges of modern gambling. While significant obstacles remain, particularly in adapting to rapid technological change and maintaining public trust, the new phase of research-driven regulation offers the potential for more informed and effective policymaking.

The closure of ABSG should not be seen as a reduction in commitment but as a strategic transition. Its contributions will continue to shape the direction of gambling regulation in the UK, and the next steps taken by the Commission will determine how effectively that legacy is carried forward into the future.

FAQs

What was the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling?
The Advisory Board for Safer Gambling was an independent advisory body to the UK Gambling Commission that provided oversight and input on the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms.

Why was ABSG closed?
The board was closed because it had completed its original remit, and the Gambling Commission decided to move towards new arrangements better suited to the next phase of regulation and research.

What were ABSG’s main achievements?
Its main achievements include recognising gambling harms as a public health issue, establishing the Lived Experience Advisory Panel, and supporting the statutory levy.

What will replace ABSG?
The Gambling Commission plans to establish a new research-focused expert group to guide the use of levy funding and strengthen evidence-based policymaking.

Will lived experience voices still be included?
Yes, the Lived Experience Advisory Panel is expected to remain active, ensuring that individuals affected by gambling harms continue to have a role in shaping regulation.

What is the statutory levy?
The statutory levy is a funding mechanism designed to support independent research, education, and treatment initiatives aimed at reducing gambling harms.

How will the new research group work?
The new group will provide expert advice on research priorities and ensure that levy funding is used to generate high-quality, independent evidence.

Does the closure of ABSG reduce the focus on safer gambling?
No, the closure marks a transition rather than a reduction. The Commission has made clear that safer gambling remains a top priority.

What challenges lie ahead for the Commission?
Challenges include implementing the levy effectively, addressing new risks from online gambling technologies, and maintaining trust with stakeholders.

How does this affect UK gambling policy?
The decision reflects a shift towards a more evidence-based approach, supported by independent research and sustainable funding, with the goal of strengthening consumer protection.