Calls for companies to provide gambling support backed

Asian sports betting and online casino company LeTou, the gaming shirt sponsor of Premier League side Swansea City, has backed calls for professional sportsman to receive problem gambling education and support.

The Professional Players Federation (PPF) and GambleAware has called for added guidance to be provided, with the PPF urging bookmakers to ensure any sponsorship agreements include a provision for mandatory education to participants regarding problem gambling.

Paul Fox, LeTou CEO, commented: “LeTou is committed to responsible gaming and works tirelessly to ensure we safeguard all who enjoy a flutter. It is imperative that all sports people are supported and educated to avoid the pitfalls that a minority encounter.

“All operators have a responsibility to support initiatives such as Responsible Gambling Week and the ‘When the Fun Stops, Stop’ campaign.

“There have also been incidences where sportspeople have breached betting regulations and it is important that they are aware of the rules.

“As well as supporting awareness campaigns, it is important that gaming companies proactively find other ways to help those in need.

“At LeTou, we have donated our Swansea City corporate hospitality and season tickets to Shelter Cymru and Disability Sport Wales.”

Adding: “It is our job to ensure that the integrity of sport is not compromised in any way. By continuing to work together with sports organisations, clubs, federations, and gambling awareness groups, we can ensure that all sports people are provided with robust support.”

Regarding the issue, LeTou has also been in discussion with Swansea City Football Club to make sure that both parties are in agreement.

A Swansea City spokesperson said: “As a club we work closely with our players, in particular our Academy groups from the Under-23s down, to educate them on sensible gambling – a subject we take very seriously.

“This includes annual presentations from the Premier League and weekly seminars from our local Police representative.

“Working in conjunction with the Professional Footballers Association, we also have a very extensive life skills programme to cover a wide range of topics including online safety, drugs, gambling, mental health, bullying etc.’’


Source: SBC News