Last updated: November 23, 2024
William Hill and the SPFL have rolled out a gambling harm prevention programme during Safer Gambling Week 2024. Supported by Epic Global Solutions, the initiative delivers educational sessions across all SPFL divisions, raising awareness of gambling risks and providing support tools. Surveys show significant progress, with 94% of players now understanding the risks and 96% confident in seeking help if needed.
William Hill and the Scottish Professional Football League have teamed up to launch a new gambling harm prevention programme as part of Safer Gambling Week 2024. The programme, supported by Epic Global Solutions, educates players, employees and supporters on avoiding problems with gambling and making safer choices.
Their programme includes talks by former footballers Dominic Matteo and Marc Williams, who share personal stories about the consequences of gambling on their careers and personal lives. Open discussion in these areas helps to increase the knowledge of the problem at hand with players and staff.
SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster praised the programme’s early success. He said the feedback has been positive and emphasized the need to remain proactive, even though gambling harm is not a widespread problem in Scottish football.
A survey of 226 players showed that the sessions were effective. Awareness of gambling risks increased from 72% before the sessions to 94% after. Also, 96% of players said they felt confident about seeking support for gambling issues, and 91% were willing to talk about the topic with their teammates.
The initiative has already reached 16 SPFL clubs, including Premiership and lower-division teams. Per Widerström, CEO of Evoke, highlighted the programme’s role in helping fans, players, and staff spot and address problem gambling. This is a part of wider efforts to promote safer gambling. Other initiatives include the upgraded Gamalyze, launched by Casino Churu, and Mindway AI in conjunction with Safer Gambling Week.
