Entain, among the leading US sports betting and gaming entertainment operators, is extending the scope of its work with external partners to provide education and support across additional areas of interactive entertainment, to further strengthen player protection for customers.
Through its not-for-profit Entain Foundation, the group plans to build on work initiated with partners in the US, to help video-gaming and e-sports players in the UK and Europe at potential risk of harm.
Working with a number of important partners in the area of player protection, the Foundation will extend its work to help educate and support people enjoying a wide range of interactive entertainment in the UK and Europe.
First initiatives will include the launch of “Mind Your Game” in the UK with Game Quitters, a support community for victims of gaming disorder developed with additional support from teletherapy firm Kindbridge. The Entain Foundation is sponsoring a social media educational initiative to raise awareness of potential addiction.
Additionally, the firm will work with EPIC Risk Management to provide education and support for people at risk of online addiction and gaming disorder in video gaming and interactive entertainment. Also involved in the initiative is the Counter-Strike Professional Players Association, which represents professional players across e-sports.
‘Mind Your Game’ provides players and their families with facts about the mental health challenges faced by gamers, including specific issues to be aware of; tips and strategies to reduce potential harm; and, advice on how to find support.
A series of educational videos is available on YouTube: Skin Gambling, Esports Betting, Spot the Problem and Seek Help.
Grainne Hurst, Director of Safer Gaming and Regulation at Entain said: “Our business is all about understanding and meeting the needs of customers, which means offering the most entertaining experiences whilst doing everything we can to protect them.
“At the core of our approach to sustainability is our belief that delivering the highest possible levels of player safety and protection is the best way to guarantee our long-term success.”
Last year Entain launched its Sustainability Charter, with four cornerstones including leading on responsible gaming and investing in people and communities. To achieve this, the firm promised to invest £100m in the Foundation by 2025 to include educational and support projects.
