Interactive
UK – Entain extends safe play partnerships into interactive entertainment
By Lewis - 29 July 2021
Entain 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 U.S., to help video-gaming and e-sports players in the UK and Europe at potential risk of harm.
Working with a number of 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.
The Mind Your Game initiative was developed with additional support from Kindbridge, a tele therapy company focused on the treatment of gamblers and gamers suffering mental health issues. The Entain Foundation is sponsoring a social media educational initiative to raise awareness of potential addiction.
Providing education and support for people at risk of online addiction and gaming disorder in video gaming and interactive entertainment with EPIC Risk Management, an international consultancy specialising in the prevention of gambling harm and he Counter-Strike Professional Players Association, which represents professional players across e-sports. The Association has a global focus and works closely with EPIC.
‘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.”
