On September 14, 2024, The New Saints FC (TNS), a powerhouse in Welsh football, cemented their reputation not only as a dominant force on the field but also as a leader in promoting social responsibility. The club, which has claimed a record-breaking 16 JD Cymru Premier titles, partnered with Gamstop to support Self-Exclusion Day, a pivotal initiative that promotes responsible gambling and empowers individuals to seek help through self-exclusion tools.

The New Saints FC Collaborates with Gamstop to Support Responsible Gambling on Self-Exclusion Day

A Pioneering Partnership for Responsible Gambling

The collaboration between The New Saints FC and Gamstop was not just a symbolic gesture. It was a profound commitment to raising awareness about the dangers of problem gambling and encouraging the use of self-exclusion tools among those affected. Self-Exclusion Day, observed across the UK, aims to shine a light on the significance of responsible gambling practices and the importance of having mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable individuals.

At the heart of this initiative was The New Saints’ JD Cymru Premier match against Barry Town United, which ended in a commanding 4-0 victory for TNS. In a move that underscored their dedication to the cause, TNS donated their match-day sponsorship slot to Gamstop, giving the platform prime visibility during the high-profile event.

Gamstop Takes Center Stage in Matchday Sponsorship

As part of the collaboration, TNS players donned special Gamstop-branded warm-up shirts before the match, amplifying the message of responsible gambling to the thousands of fans in attendance and the many more watching via broadcasts. The sight of players warming up in custom-made Gamstop gear sent a powerful visual message about the club’s commitment to the cause. Additionally, TNS further promoted the campaign through their matchday programme and social media platforms, ensuring that the message reached far and wide.

The partnership didn’t stop there. Beyond matchday, Gamstop, in collaboration with the Addiction Recovery Agency (ARA), planned a series of training sessions for The New Saints Academy. These sessions aim to equip young athletes with knowledge about the risks of gambling, how to identify signs of problem gambling, and the vital role that self-exclusion tools can play in combating gambling addiction.

Empowering Youth: The Role of TNS Academy

One of the most impactful aspects of this partnership is the focus on education. As part of their ongoing commitment to promoting a healthy and responsible lifestyle, The New Saints Academy will soon host training sessions delivered by Gamstop and ARA experts. The goal is to educate young athletes about the dangers of gambling and provide them with tools to support their peers and the wider community.

With the rise of online gambling, young people are more exposed than ever to its risks. By proactively addressing this issue within their Academy, TNS is helping to cultivate a new generation of athletes who are aware of the pitfalls of gambling and equipped to make informed decisions. This initiative is a crucial step in fostering a culture of responsibility, not just within the club, but across the broader footballing community.

Statements of Support from Key Figures

The success of this partnership has not gone unnoticed. Speaking on the initiative, Gamstop CEO Fiona Palmer expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support provided by The New Saints FC.

She highlighted the vital role football clubs can play in shaping their communities, stating: “The level of support The New Saints provided for Self-Exclusion Day has been above and beyond. Football clubs play a key role in shaping their communities, and it’s fantastic to see TNS take such a proactive stance in supporting individuals who may be struggling with gambling harm. Together, we can ensure that support is available for those who need it.”

Palmer’s sentiments were echoed by Chris Seargeant, Head of Academy at The New Saints FC, who emphasized the club’s dedication to both their players and the wider community.

He said: “We’re delighted to work with Gamstop and use the power of football to raise awareness about the importance of responsible gambling. As a club, we are always looking for ways to support our players, fans, and the wider community. This partnership is a crucial step in continuing that mission.”

Gamstop’s Commitment to Reducing Gambling Harm

For those unfamiliar, Gamstop is a free, independent service that allows individuals in the UK to self-exclude from online gambling sites. By registering with Gamstop, users can restrict their access to gambling websites and apps, helping them regain control over their gambling habits. This self-exclusion mechanism is an essential tool for those struggling with problem gambling, offering a practical way to prevent harm and encourage recovery.

In recent years, the impact of problem gambling has become a growing concern, with many individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm. Gamstop, along with organizations like ARA, has been at the forefront of efforts to address this issue by providing resources, support, and education to those in need.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission of Responsible Gambling

The partnership between The New Saints FC and Gamstop is more than just a one-time event. It reflects an ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gambling within the footballing community and beyond. By leveraging their platform, The New Saints FC is making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by gambling addiction and encouraging conversations around the importance of self-exclusion.

FAQs About The New Saints FC Collaboration with Gamstop for Self-Exclusion Day

1. What is the partnership between The New Saints FC and Gamstop?

The partnership between The New Saints FC (TNS) and Gamstop was formed to promote responsible gambling and support Self-Exclusion Day on September 14, 2024. The collaboration aims to raise awareness about the risks of problem gambling and encourage the use of self-exclusion tools to help individuals regain control over their gambling habits.

2. What is Self-Exclusion Day?

Self-Exclusion Day is an initiative aimed at promoting responsible gambling by highlighting the importance of self-exclusion tools, which allow individuals to restrict access to online gambling websites and apps. The day encourages awareness and education about the dangers of gambling addiction and how to prevent harm.

3. How did The New Saints FC promote Self-Exclusion Day during their match?

During their JD Cymru Premier match against Barry Town United, The New Saints FC donated their match-day sponsorship slot to Gamstop. The players wore special Gamstop-branded warm-up shirts before the game, and the initiative was further promoted through the club’s matchday programme and social media platforms.

4. What was the outcome of The New Saints FC’s match against Barry Town United?

The New Saints FC secured a 4-0 victory against Barry Town United during the JD Cymru Premier match held on Self-Exclusion Day.

5. How is The New Saints Academy involved in the partnership?

As part of the collaboration, Gamstop and the Addiction Recovery Agency (ARA) will deliver training sessions at The New Saints Academy. These sessions aim to educate young athletes about the risks of gambling, how to support those struggling with gambling harm, and the benefits of using self-exclusion tools.

6. What did Gamstop CEO Fiona Palmer say about the partnership?

Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop, praised The New Saints FC for their strong support of Self-Exclusion Day, stating that football clubs play a key role in shaping their communities and that TNS’s proactive stance is crucial in supporting individuals struggling with gambling harm.

7. What role does Gamstop play in reducing gambling harm?

Gamstop is a free, independent service that allows individuals to self-exclude from online gambling sites. By registering with Gamstop, users can restrict their access to gambling websites and apps, helping to prevent gambling-related harm.

8. Why is responsible gambling important for football clubs like The New Saints FC?

Football clubs have significant influence over their communities and fans. By promoting responsible gambling, clubs like The New Saints FC help raise awareness about the risks of problem gambling and provide support for individuals who may be struggling, making a positive impact both on and off the pitch.

9. How does The New Saints FC’s partnership with Gamstop benefit the community?

The partnership raises awareness about responsible gambling and provides education through initiatives like the training sessions for young athletes at The New Saints Academy. This helps to foster a community that is informed about the risks of gambling and equipped to make safer, more responsible choices.