Allwyn UK, operator of The National Lottery, this week hosted its second Participant Protection Conference titled ‘Evolving Participant Protection: Evidence, Insight & Action’.

The event brought together regulatory leaders, academics, researchers and industry experts to explore the latest evidence, insights and best practice in responsible play.

Held at Kings Place in London, the conference featured contributions from leading voices across research, regulation and industry. Discussions focused on how research, accessibility and behavioural insights can support positive player experiences while helping organisations strengthen their overall approach to participant protection.

The day included:

• ‍A keynote address from Sarah Gardner, Acting CEO of the Gambling Commission, who noted that Allwyn UK’s commitment to strengthen participant protection as part of its bid to operate The National Lottery is now being delivered and progressing.
• Opening remarks from Allwyn UK Interim CEO Phil Walker on Allwyn UK’s ambition to grow The National Lottery responsibly, and the importance of collaboration and open, honest evidence sharing.
• A Lottery Literacy Workshop led by Dr Richard Wood, an internationally recognised expert in player behaviour.
• A session led by world leading expert in the psychology of gambling, Dr Jonathan Parke, which explored the characteristics of product risk.
• A panel exploring neurodiversity and responsible play, with Clare Palmer from IFF Research, Sarah Fox from the Gambling Commission and Liam Hassell from Hassell Inclusion.

The event comes as Allwyn UK continues to build on its ongoing transformation of The National Lottery. Recent participant protection initiatives include:

• The continued development of Operation Guardian, Allwyn’s retail mystery shopping and knowledge-check programme.
• The introduction of a 10-Scratchcard purchase limit in 2024.
• The recent expansion of Allwyn’s standalone Responsible Play website.

New digital controls brought in on The National Lottery website and app, including an enhanced interventions programme for potentially at-risk customers and a £50 first-deposit limit for new online customers.