Gambling Commission Seeks Consistency in PGSI Report Findings

The Gambling Commission has published a report examining the link between certain gambling products and Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) scores, admitting it needs more comparisons to ensure the "consistency" of its findings.

The report revealed that a “substantially high proportion” of those who played online or retail casino games, online slots, and placed sports bets had PGSI scores of eight or higher, indicating potentially problematic gambling. The Commission found these products, along with non-National Lottery online instant wins and scratchcards, were “significantly” associated with high PGSI scores when accounting for broader gambling involvement and demographic factors.

The report also noted that many of the products linked to high PGSI scores are “faster, continuous gambling formats.” However, it stated that it was “less clear” why non-sports and in-person betting are also associated with higher scores, suggesting that "low prevalence among the population and increased popularity among those experiencing adverse consequences may explain some of these associations."

The Gambling Commission plans to replicate the analysis in future reports to ensure more stable and consistent findings.