Zoe Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, said:
“The Charity Commission has written to GambleAware to confirm the case has been closed without criticism, or findings against, the organisation. The Regulator has stated unequivocally that they are ‘assured that the trustees have taken appropriate steps to both ensure its [GambleAware’s] independence from the gambling industry and to address reputational risks arising from its current funding model’.
“Importantly, the Commission has also stated it is ‘satisfied that the Charity’s reliance on industry funding does not impact on decision-making about its activities’. We were pleased to see the Commission acknowledge our robust policies and governance processes as well as the important role our Lived Experience Council plays in providing advice and direction to our activities, among others.
“Gambling harms have a devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities. GambleAware is wholly dedicated to advancing our charitable purposes for the public benefit, which is why we have long called for the introduction of a statutory levy on the gambling industry to provide long-term sustainable funding for the treatment, support and prevention of gambling harms.
“We urge anyone experiencing harm to reach out. Help and support are available through the National Gambling Support Network and the National Gambling Helpline, offering free, confidential assistance 24/7 to those in need.”
