Calls for the UK gambling sector to address its reputation and increase investment in career development have intensified, as industry representatives warn that ongoing concerns could lead to further government regulation. Speaking at a recent panel event at London’s Hippodrome Casino, leaders from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), Bacta, and the Gambling Business Group (GBG) emphasized the need for a clearer public message about the industry’s role in supporting employment and local economies.
The panel, part of the Better Change initiative ahead of Safer Gambling Week, highlighted the urgency for the gambling sector to attract new talent through apprenticeships and to communicate career opportunities more effectively to the public.
Industry Pressures and the Value of Education
Robert Gibb, commercial executive director at Bacta, noted that land-based gaming businesses are facing increasing financial pressures, including higher gaming duties and uncertainty over business rates. Gibb explained that with government-set stakes and prices, operators have limited ability to offset rising costs, which can hinder investment in staff and training.
He also stressed the importance of educating policymakers about the diversity of businesses within the gambling and amusement sectors. Gibb suggested that direct engagement, such as visits to venues, can help change perceptions by highlighting the commitment and professionalism of staff.
Promoting Apprenticeships and Career Development
Panelists argued that the gambling industry must do more to promote the range of career opportunities available, especially through apprenticeships. Peter Hannibal, chief executive of the Gambling Business Group, responded to criticism that jobs in the sector lack long-term prospects, emphasizing that apprenticeships and professional development are accessible to all and can offer meaningful career paths.
Hannibal acknowledged that negative coverage often centers on gambling harm and called for the industry to communicate its positive contributions with greater confidence and factual support. Learning from past controversies, such as the reduction of fixed-odds betting terminal stakes, he urged the sector to take a proactive approach to regulation and reputation management.
Government Policy and the Road Ahead
Jack Naisbitt, head of media and digital communications at the BGC, highlighted the expansion of compliance, data, technology, and safer gambling roles as examples of diverse career paths within the industry. He called for greater government certainty to enable businesses to invest in training and apprenticeships.
The discussion follows the UK Chancellor’s announcement of a rise in Machine Games Duty and ongoing reviews of gambling laws, including the work of the new Gambling Policy Commission (GPC). The sector is seeking a stable regulatory environment to support both employment and high street businesses.
More information on the ongoing regulatory changes can be found on the Betting and Gaming Council website.
Supporting Local Economies and the Sector’s Future
Industry leaders maintain that with the right investment in people and a stronger public message, the UK gambling sector can continue to support local economies and offer rewarding careers. They argue that apprenticeships and a clear focus on staff development will be key to improving both the industry’s reputation and its long-term prospects.
As the UK gambling landscape evolves, the sector’s ability to attract talent and demonstrate its value to society will remain central to its sustainability and growth.