UKGC Holds Key Demographic Gambling Data

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A Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed the extent of demographic data collected by the UK's gambling regulator, confirming that information on gambler ethnicity and region is available for independent analysis.

In a response dated 21 February 2024, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) addressed a query from a university student researching the effects of unemployment on gambling habits. The student requested more granular data from the Commission's surveys, specifically seeking a breakdown of respondents by ethnicity and region.

While the UKGC did not provide the data directly, its response confirms that this information is collected and accessible, pointing to a valuable resource for understanding gambling behaviour across different UK communities.

Why This Data Matters

Detailed demographic data is crucial for identifying and addressing gambling-related harm. By analysing participation and problem gambling rates across different ethnic groups, regions, and socioeconomic backgrounds, researchers and policymakers can develop more targeted and effective consumer protection strategies. This information provides the evidence base needed to understand if certain communities are disproportionately affected by gambling harm, allowing for tailored support and public health initiatives.

Details of the FOI Response

The Commission withheld the information under Section 21 of the Freedom of Information Act, which exempts information that is already reasonably accessible to the applicant by other means. This is not a refusal to share data, but rather a redirection to the established channel for accessing it.

The UKGC stated that the full data collections from its quarterly telephone surveys are available through the UK Data Service, a national repository of social, economic, and population data.

Key points from the response include:

• Data Availability: The UKGC's raw survey data, including demographic details like ethnicity and region, is archived and accessible.
• Access Protocol: Researchers, students, and other interested parties can access these datasets by registering with the UK Data Service.
• Purpose: This process ensures that sensitive and complex datasets are used for legitimate research purposes within a controlled academic framework.

Significance for Consumers and the Industry

The confirmation that this data is systematically collected and made available is significant. It demonstrates a pathway for independent scrutiny of gambling trends beyond the top-line statistics published by the regulator.

For consumers, this transparency means that academics and public health bodies can conduct in-depth research into the drivers of gambling harm. Studies like the one proposed by the student—linking unemployment to gambling habits—can inform government policy and pressure the industry to strengthen its social responsibility measures.

For the gambling industry, the availability of this data underscores the importance of understanding its customer base. The findings from research using these datasets can be used to hold operators accountable and to inform regulatory decisions on matters such as affordability, marketing, and player protection, contributing to a safer gambling environment for everyone.