Bacta SR Exchange in Leeds Highlights Industry Commitment

The Bacta SR Exchange in Leeds yesterday was a resounding success, with a sold-out audience of venue staff from multiple operators gathering to strengthen their knowledge and share best practices around social responsibility in the gambling and amusements sector.

The event brought together frontline staff, senior managers, and regulators for a day of practical training and insight, focused on how to apply safer gambling principles effectively in real-world settings. Bacta described the event as a celebration of “social responsibility as a cornerstone of the positive gambling experience that Bacta members offer to customers.”

The day included powerful sessions from industry leaders and stakeholders, with keynote contributions from Bryony Sheldon of the Gambling Commission, Robert Mabbett of Better Change (Gibraltar) Ltd, and Elizabeth Speed, who all shared expert perspectives on improving player protection.

Jamie Colley, Compliance Senior Manager at the Gambling Commission, provided a valuable preview of the Commission’s ongoing work with the arcade sector and reiterated the importance of operationalising compliance through staff training and practical implementation. 

Jamie also emphasised the value of industry-led initiatives like the SR Exchange. “I think it is really important that there are opportunities to share and discuss the practical application of gambling requirements,” he said. “Policy discussions are important, but licensees also benefit hugely by sharing challenges and good practice—especially those without dedicated compliance teams.”

Colley highlighted that face-to-face engagement remains vital for the land-based sector in identifying potential harm. “Providing the right training to staff is key,” he noted, “and ensuring customer interactions are conducted, recorded and evaluated is really important.”

As part of the Commission’s broader commitment to improving collaboration, Jamie also touched on the success of recent site visits to licensed venues. “The visits provide an insight into the day-to-day activities and challenges of the sector,” he said. “We will definitely continue these site visits and welcome any offers to host them.”

The Leeds SR Exchange was generously supported by Inspired Entertainment, MERKUR GROUP, NOVOMATIC, Boomerang Digital, and RBW Systems, whose backing helped bring the event to life.

With momentum building, Bacta’s SR Exchange continues to evolve as a key forum for empowering frontline staff and strengthening the social responsibility culture across the UK’s amusements and gaming venues.

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27 March 2025

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