Five members of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) have confirmed that they will spend £100m to improve the treatment services for problem gamblers.

bet365, GVC, PaddyPower Betfair, Sky Betting and Gaming (which are both now part of Flutter Entertainment) and William Hill, announced that they will provide funds to GambleAware charity who will be the main commissioning agent for ensuring funds reach people who require counselling and treatment.

These operators have already pledged to increase the amount they spend on research, education and treatment (RET) services from 0.1% to 0.25% of their annual revenue in 2020, 0.5% in 2021, 0.75% in 2022 and 1% in 2023.

Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, said: “GambleAware has a long track record in commissioning treatment services and working with providers for the benefit of problem gamblers.

“Through the provision of this unprecedented level of financial support, we aim to achieve a step-change in the treatment and counselling available to those experiencing gambling-related harm.

“As an industry, we are taking significant strides to build in further protections for customers. From increasing safer gambling messages in response to Covid-19, to a £10 million nationwide education initiative targeting all 11-19 years olds across the country, we are creating a safer environment for our customers while devoting resources to protecting the vulnerable and under-age.”

BGC has also confirmed that £2.5 million will be made available to the YGAM/GamCare gambling education project in this financial year. Also, the operators will continue to provide 0.1% of their annual revenue to GambleAware’s funding of RET, while BGC members will give an additional £3.8 million of funding to the BetRegret 2020 advertising campaign to encourage safer gambling.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “I’ve seen first hand how problem gambling can damage people’s mental health and affect the lives of those around them – and I’ve been determined to help protect vulnerable people from the impacts.

“So I’m delighted the Betting and Gaming Council is taking these steps to support treatment and provision for problem gamblers.

“The Government will continue to tackle the consequences of problem gambling by rolling out specialist services on the NHS, which will offer expert care and treatment for those who need it.”