As part of Safer Gambling Week, the National Betting Authority organized the Safer Gambling Conference, which aims to raise awareness and promote responsible gambling practices. Standoutedu, showing its support, participated in the conference.
Christina Christoforou, Head of Safer Gambling & Operational Development at the National Betting Authority, delivered a speech highlighting several key points about the authority’s commitment to public interest and the development of a safer gambling environment in Cyprus. Some of the main topics she addressed included:
- Ensuring Public Interest: The primary goal is to safeguard public interest by encouraging safer gambling habits.
- Cyprus as a Hub for Safer Gambling: There is a clear vision for Cyprus to grow as a leader in the realm of safer gambling, implementing best practices and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Key Achievements and Initiatives
Ms. Christoforou emphasized some of the significant accomplishments and ongoing initiatives:
- Support for Players:
Gamblers can now seek assistance without fear of stigma. One of the key milestones is the creation of the National Self-Exclusion Platform, developed by the National Betting Authority. This platform allows individuals to control their gambling activities and self-exclude from all legal online betting companies in Cyprus. - Widespread Use of Protective Measures:
To date, 100% of players have implemented at least one protection measure, showcasing a positive shift in gambling behaviors. - Safer Gambling Standard:
National Betting Authority is in the process of implementing the Safer Gambling standard, further enhancing the safety of the gambling environment.
Youth Protection and Education
National Betting Authority is also involved in a series of initiatives aimed at protecting young people:
- Participation in the “Young Cities” Programme:
In collaboration with the Cyprus Youth Organization, National Betting Authority supports the “Young Cities” program, which encourages active citizenship and skill development, empowering youth to contribute to the community. The initiative earned a “Good Practice Certificate.” - Parental Skill Development Program:
A parental skill-building program has been launched in collaboration with the Cyprus National Addictions Authority, focusing on educating parents on responsible gambling and its potential impact on families.
Research and Collaboration
- Research on Gambling’s Impact on Women:
National Betting Authority has partnered with the Cyprus National Addictions Authority and SPAVO (Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family) to conduct research on the effects of gambling on women. This research aims to better understand the specific challenges women face in relation to gambling.
STANDOUTEDU’s Commitment
STANDOUTEDU’s involvement in the 7th Safer Gambling Conference reaffirms its commitment to creating a safer gambling environment in Cyprus, while also supporting broader social initiatives that promote responsible behavior and community well-being.
Additionally, STANDOUTEDU is a partner in the Erasmus+ project “Gambling Free Feed,” an international effort aimed at preventing gambling addiction through education and awareness. This project focuses on creating educational materials and training programs for youth, educators, and community leaders, helping them address and prevent problem gambling behaviors.
Through its participation, STANDOUTEDU strengthens its role as an advocate for responsible gambling practices, both locally and across Europe.
Myrianthi Karantona
Project Manager
