Analysis3 min read
13 out of 14: why photo-folder self-exclusion keeps failing
A BBC investigation found 13 of 14 adult gaming centres let a self-excluded reporter gamble. Why photo-based enforcement fails, and what operators can do differently.
Adult gaming centres: close the self-exclusion gap.
AGCs are under more scrutiny than ever. ClientScan checks every customer at the door against your self-exclusion database and prompts Think 25 age checks — around the clock.
- AGCs let a self-excluded reporter play (BBC, 2025)
- 13 of 14
- Fine for self-exclusion failings (2026)
- £150,000
- AGCs in Britain
- ~1,500
The sector under the spotlight
In June 2025, a BBC File on 4 investigation found that a self-excluded reporter was able to play slot machines in 13 of 14 adult gaming centres he visited in Portsmouth. The Gambling Commission called the findings "very concerning" and launched its own investigation.
Enforcement has followed. The Commission suspended an AGC's licence in May 2025 for not participating in a scheme, and in 2026 fined Holland Park Leisure £150,000, with an independent audit of its staff training and controls.
Why AGCs find it hard
- Long opening hours — some venues are open 24 hours, with small teams.
- Customers go straight to machines, often without visiting a counter.
- Area-based exclusions — schemes share photos with venues within a radius, so the list keeps growing.
- Age checks — the Commission's consultation highlighted AGCs as an area of concern for age verification, and Think 25 now applies.
How ClientScan helps AGCs
- Every face checked on entry against your self-exclusion database — detection and recognition in under 200ms.
- Instant alerts to staff by WhatsApp, email or on-screen, with name and exclusion period.
- Think 25 prompts from age validation in under one second.
- Multi-site database so an exclusion at one venue is recognised across your estate.
- Low cost — runs on a standard Windows PC with your existing cameras.
- A record of alerts to evidence your controls.
Work with your scheme
ClientScan supports enforcement for the scheme your venues belong to — whether that's the Bacta scheme or SmartEXCLUSION. See UK self-exclusion schemes explained.
Frequently asked questions
01Which self-exclusion scheme applies to AGCs?
Adult gaming centres must participate in a multi-operator scheme. The main options are the scheme run by Bacta, the trade body for the sector, and SmartEXCLUSION.
02Can ClientScan work in a venue open 24 hours?
Yes. ClientScan runs continuously on a standard Windows PC and checks every face on entry, regardless of how busy the venue is or who is on shift.
Further reading
Related insights
Compliance guide5 min read
Self-exclusion in land-based gambling: what the rules require of your venues
A practical guide to Gambling Commission self-exclusion requirements for betting shops, adult gaming centres, bingo halls and casinos — and what effective enforcement looks like.
Explainer3 min read
UK self-exclusion schemes explained: MOSES, SENSE, Bacta, BISES, SmartEXCLUSION and GAMSTOP
Which multi-operator self-exclusion scheme covers which kind of gambling venue in Great Britain, how customers enrol, and what each scheme means for operators.
Talk to us
See how ClientScan works for adult gaming centres.
Find out how ClientScan helps your team enforce self-exclusion and Think 25 — on standard hardware, with the cameras you already have.