The Social Responsibility Codes of Practice require licensed operators to have in place policies designed to prevent underage gambling, and details the measures which bookmakers are bound to take. The Ordinary Code calls for a Think 21 Policy to be in place.
Some operators have voluntarily introduced a Think 25 regime in order to better protect themselves, and the courses have decided that, as a condition of operating at a track, an operator must have in place a Think 25 policy. This direction is given in accordance with Special Conditions (e).
The FRB have produced a number of stickers bearing the Think 25 logo, and these are available from the BRMs on course, to be displayed on the joint.
** BOOKMAKERS ARE REMINDED THAT THERE REMAINS AN OBLIGATION TO DISPLAY SIGNAGE INFORMING PATRONS THAT THEY MUST BE AGED OVER 18 YEARS TO PLACE A BET**
In light of this, it is highly recommended that bookmakers revisit their policies to ensure they are sufficiently robust.
While some meetings such as ‘family’ or ‘student’ events present a greater risk of a person under 18 attempting to place a bet, the consequences of their doing so (or failure of a Test Purchase) will be mitigated if the bookmaker can show that the level of challenges reflects the increase in the risk.
It is therefore important that challenges are accurately recorded and reported.
Remember - Increased vulnerability should mean increased vigilance!