Gambling Commission Licencing
Gambling Commission Licensing
The Gambling Commission is the regulatory body responsible for licensing and overseeing individuals and businesses that provide gambling services in England, Wales, and Scotland. This includes the regulation of activities like bingo, betting shops, and the National Lottery. The regulation of gambling premises is managed in collaboration with local licensing authorities (usually the local council), although in certain cases, national authorities may intervene.
Key Responsibilities of the Gambling Commission
The Gambling Commission maintains a national register of Licensed Gambling Premises and Operators. This register provides information such as:
- Address of the premises.
- Name of the operator.
- Type of gambling activity licensed, including:
- Bingo
- Betting Shops
- Adult Gaming Centres
- Family Entertainment Centres
- Casinos (including those under the 2005 Gambling Act)
- Pool Betting
- Betting Intermediaries
This register is populated using data provided by local licensing authorities and gambling businesses. It is updated as licenses are granted, renewed, or amended.
Operator’s Licences and Trading Names
In addition to premises licenses, companies offering gambling services require an operator’s licence if:
- They operate multiple premises (e.g., companies like Ladbrokes or Paddy Power).
- They trade online-only (e.g., Betpoint Group UK Limited).
Operators must also declare all trading names, ensuring transparency. For instance, Betpoint Group UK Limited operates under trading names like Pokerplex24 and Casinoplex.
Recent Updates and Legislation
The Gambling Commission operates under the Gambling Act 2005, which has been updated to address:
- Online gambling regulations, ensuring fairness, transparency, and safeguards against problem gambling.
- Advertising standards, requiring clear and responsible messaging.
- Enhanced measures for player protection, including stricter age verification and affordability checks.
The Gambling White Paper 2023 proposed further reforms, including:
- Mandatory stake limits for online slots.
- A statutory levy on operators to fund problem gambling support.
- Enhanced powers for the Gambling Commission to regulate emerging technologies and platforms.
Key Challenges and Reliance on Local Authorities
While the national register provides comprehensive oversight, it relies on accurate and timely information from local licensing authorities and operators. Inconsistencies in reporting can lead to delays or inaccuracies in the register.
Useful Links for Further Reading
Gambling Act 2005 The core legislation governing gambling activities in Great Britain, detailing licensing requirements and regulatory responsibilities.
Gambling Commission: Apply for a Licence Offers guidance for businesses and individuals on how to apply for operator or premises licences.
« Back to Glossary IndexFor more detailed insights into gambling licence holders and locations, explore our Property data product which provides extensive residential and commercial address-level data covering the whole of the UK.