November 17–23, 2025, was Safer Gambling Week in the UK and Ireland, focusing on promoting safe play and support services for players, with a lasting impact anticipated.
Key highlights and new developments in Ireland include:
New Digital Hub by EGBA
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) introduced a central website for the campaign at safergambling.eu, offering:
– Resources like national helplines and self-exclusion systems across Europe.
– A full events programme for Safer Gambling Week, including webinars, workshops, and policy roundtables.
– Tips for safer gambling, such as recognizing warning signs, setting limits, and breaking harmful habits.
Campaign materials are available in over 27 languages to engage diverse European audiences.
Ireland’s Regulatory Support
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), established in 2025, supports the campaign’s messages, aligning with its focus on consumer protection and awareness from 2025–2027. This initiative enhances safer gambling tools and visibility, impacting sites offering online blackjack in Ireland.
Safer Gambling Forum
Starting November 17, the Safer Gambling Forum brought together industry leaders, charities, and regulators in a virtual event to discuss:
– Safer gambling initiatives by operators
– Innovations for harm prevention
– Regulation challenges and cross-border cooperation
This is part of a broader effort to improve player protections in Europe.
Campaign Themes: Play Smart, Set Limits, Get Help
The 2025 campaign emphasizes:
– “Play smart… set your limits” — encouraging pre-set budgets.
– “Enjoy the game, but know the risks” — advising against viewing gambling as income.
– “Take a break… don’t chase your losses” — promoting control in gambling.
The campaign aims to normalize these conversations and improve tool accessibility.
Helplines and Support in Ireland
The campaign highlights the Irish helpline, 1800 936 725, for confidential support, along with promoting self-exclusion tools and limit-setting features.
GRAI’s Long-Term Strategy
GRAI’s 2025–2027 Strategy Statement focuses on integrating safer gambling tools online, supporting a continual focus on safer gambling beyond this week.
Importance in Ireland
– Awareness: Increasing knowledge of available support services.
– Stigma reduction: Encouraging open dialogue about gambling harm.
– Tool adoption: Promoting self-exclusion, deposit limits, and time-outs.
– Regulatory commitment: Demonstrating GRAI’s focus on player protection.
How to Participate
– Share safer gambling content on social media with #ESGW25.
– Display campaign materials in venues across Ireland.
– Attend webinars and workshops during the week.
Conclusion
Safer Gambling Week 2025 is a significant initiative in Ireland, supported by GRAI and industry players. The new EGBA platform and local resources enhance accessibility to support. Whether you gamble or know someone who does, this week underscores that safer gambling is achievable and supported.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
