UKGC inks research partnership with Gambling Research Exchange Ontario
Canadian research partnership will aid delivery of National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has partnered with Canadian think-tank Gambling Research Exchange Ontario (GREO) to aid the delivery of its National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms.
Under the terms of the agreement, GREO will receive “payments” from the UKGC for using its existing infrastructure and international relationships to accelerate the delivery of the recently launched three-year National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms, first launched in May.
Funding for GREO will be derived from financial settlements received by the UKGC following operator non-compliance.
During the initial development phase of the strategy, the UKGC conducted a review of existing gambling research providers with the aim of creating a so-called “research hub” of international research, public health data and industry data on gambling worldwide.
As part of this development, the UKGC’s National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms microsite will feature reports and research briefs, together with assessments on key policy objectives.
Gambling Research Exchange Ontario (GREO) aims to eliminate harm from gambling using information exchange and research.
The organisation works with several stakeholders including researchers, policy makers, gambling regulators, and operators, as well as treatment and prevention service providers.
It also aims “to support evidence-informed decision making in the development and implementation of responsible gambling policies, standards, and practices”.
Tim Miller, executive director at the Gambling Commission said GREO’s new role in supporting the UKGC was the “perfect example” of the collaboration it was looking for in the strategy.
“GREO is a well-respected independent research organisation with a wealth of experience in gambling research and dissemination. Ultimately, their expertise, networks and insight will help us and our partners to accelerate progress over the next three years,” Miller added.