Islanders to have say about future of CI Lottery

A restriction on where scratch cards are sold, and a maximum monthly spend on instant scratch cards are a couple of the ideas being floated in the document, with islanders asked to give their thoughts.

The joint Guernsey and Jersey lottery is run by the islands’ governments and raises money to support local charities and good causes, through the proceeds generated by the sale of scratch card instant games and the Christmas Lottery draw.

But there have been concerns about gambling, with research showing that recreational gamblers are more likely to report poor physical and mental health and increased risk of health risk behaviours such as nicotine dependence, alcohol misuse and substance use.

The new survey aims to better understand the prevalence and types of gambling in Guernsey, assess the impact on health and wellbeing, and assess support available for at-risk and problem gamblers.

It will add to the broader health impact assessment commissioned by Public Health to assess the needs of the Guernsey population in relation to gambling.

Senior lottery officer Jon Taylor said as the CI Lottery’s 50th birthday approached, efforts were being made to develop its games in a safe and responsible way.

‘We are consulting with addiction service providers and public health authorities in both islands to ensure we maximise this opportunity and help us develop responsible play initiatives and new game proposals that will continue to raise significant money for local causes but in safe and fun way,’ he said.

The survey asks about participants’ ages and health, as well as what gambling they have taken part in during the last year. It also asks if they feel at risk of a gambling addiction.

It highlights that the lottery is the oldest in the islands and asked if people were aware the funds were used to fund good causes.

Participants are asked if they agree with a number of statements, such as whether gambling 'livens up life' or if it was dangerous to family life.

They are also asked about suggestions for the future of the lottery, such as instant scratch cards only being sold to people who have registered for it, a maximum monthly spend on instant scratch cards, and the CI Lottery Christmas Draw becoming an online game.

It also suggested reducing the range of scratch cards, restricting the sale of scratch cards to retail outlets, and a monthly draw being introduced for Channel Islands residents.

The survey is open Channel Islands residents aged 18 and over.

• It can be completed here.