As Head of Compliance at Fitzdares, I’ve been closely following the UK Gambling Commission’s (UKGC) latest pilot on financial risk assessments. This initiative, which began in September 2024 and is set to run until April 2025, is designed to identify and support high-staking online gamblers who may be at risk of financial harm. While the ambition is to strike a balance between protection and play, it remains essential that the measures are implemented with a degree of nuance and finesse.
A Well-Intentioned Initiative
The UKGC’s stated objective is clear: to protect vulnerable individuals without significantly disrupting the wider betting ecosystem. Their preliminary findings suggest that approximately 75% of high-spending customers could undergo these assessments without any additional action required on the operator’s part—a reassuring statistic that indicates a frictionless approach for most. However, as always, execution will be key to ensuring that protection does not inadvertently create barriers for responsible bettors.
Balancing Protection and Play
For some customers, further scrutiny may be required, and in those cases, clarity will be vital. While the use of automation and existing financial data should ease the process for many, ensuring a smooth, unobtrusive experience for those who do need to provide additional information will be crucial. Transparency around spending thresholds and criteria will help customers feel confident that they are being treated fairly, rather than facing an unexpected hurdle at the final furlong.
As highlighted by industry commentators, including The Racing Post, communication will play a key role in this pilot’s success. Ensuring that checks are well-signposted and proportionate will prevent unnecessary frustration among customers, allowing them to continue enjoying the sport they love. (Racing Post)
Keeping the Spirit of Betting Alive
From my perspective, safeguarding bettors while preserving the unique thrill of the wager must go hand in hand. Betting is not simply about numbers; it is about the drama of the photo finish, the roar of the crowd at Cheltenham, and the camaraderie that defines our great sport.
While measures to protect those at risk are undeniably important, they should not dampen the experience for those who bet responsibly. Finding a regulatory framework that targets risk without discouraging participation will be the key to ensuring betting remains both safe and enjoyable.
Supporting British Racing
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has voiced concerns over the potential financial impact of affordability checks on the sport. Racing relies heavily on betting revenues, and any policies that unintentionally dissuade bettors could have knock-on effects across the industry. A measured approach that supports both player protection and the sustainability of racing will be essential. (Racing Post)
Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Common Sense
As the pilot progresses, the key will be ensuring a balanced, proportionate approach. Betting has long been built on trust, experience, and passion—values that must be preserved alongside any new safeguards.
At Fitzdares, we remain committed to working with regulators to create a betting environment that is both secure and seamless. My hope is that the final framework reflects the needs of all stakeholders, ensuring that betting remains an art, not a bureaucratic exercise.
Until then, let’s continue to celebrate the sport, the spectacle, and the occasional winning streak. After all, responsible betting should be about enjoyment, not excessive red tape.
By Sam McKnight, Head of Compliance at Fitzdares
