The Responsible Gaming Council’s (RGC) RG Check Accreditation program has been integrated into the entry requirements for the igaming market in Ontario by iGaming Ontario.
Ensuring that responsible gambling is woven into the fabric of the newly regulated market is a key priority of iGO. RGC’s RG Check accreditation is required after entering the operating agreement with iGO, however, operators may wish to complete the process in advance.
“RG Check is a clear and tangible signal of the government’s commitment to making public protection and sustainable play a priority and a key part of creating a culture of responsible gambling here in Ontario,” commented Shelley White, CEO, RGC. “RG Check is a leading responsible gambling accreditation that is used by jurisdictions around the world. The RG Check symbol is a demonstration to all that the operator is committed to and has strong gambling safeguards in place.”
The RG Check program has already been taken up by land-based casino operators in Ontario and is designed to ‘ensure the highest standards of responsible gambling will be maintained’ when new operators enter the Ontario igaming market from April 4.
Originally developed in 2010 with input from operators, players and policymakers, RGC Check helps gambling venues and igaming sites evaluate, monitor and manage all aspects of their responsible gambling strategy and operations.
“The RG Check team is excited to make a contribution to a comprehensive RG framework with clear, evidence-based and impactful player protection measures that minimize potential harms associated with gambling,” added Tracy Parker, Director, Standards and Accreditation, RGC. “A consistent accreditation program for all operators will help ensure a common approach to monitoring and assessment and provide a fair and transparent process. The collaborative approach of RG Check will help support continuous improvement in Ontario.”
The RGC stated that it ‘looks forward’ to working with new operators to maintain ‘world-class’ responsible gambling measures through projects such as public education and extensive awareness campaigns.
“We are extremely pleased to be partnering with RGC on this initiative,” concluded Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario. “The RG Check program is comprised of nine standards and 48 criteria that measure the scope and effectiveness of operators’ RG programming in areas such as site and product design, marketing communications and assisting players who may be experiencing harm from gambling. This allows Ontarians to play with confidence.”
