Bingo halls are being praised for their role in addressing a widespread issue of loneliness, as stated by the head of the largest bingo chain in the UK.

Dominic Mansour, the CEO of Buzz Bingo, previously known as Gala, emphasized that bingo is more than just a game of numbers; it fosters community, connections, and offers a safe space for social interaction.

Despite this positive impact, there has been a notable decrease in the number of bingo halls nationwide. Buzz Bingo, which once had 137 locations, now operates 79 sites due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to reduced attendance.

Overall, the industry has seen a decline from 335 bingo halls pre-pandemic to 247 currently, a significant drop from the approximately 635 establishments before the smoking ban was enforced in 2007.

Mr. Mansour highlighted the importance of bingo venues as essential community hubs, although he acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector in recent years.

A survey conducted by the company revealed that nearly half of bingo players felt lonely before joining a game, but a majority reported feeling less lonely and more connected after participating.

Recent research indicated that nearly 26 million UK adults experience occasional or chronic loneliness, emphasizing the significant impact of loneliness nationwide and the crucial role bingo plays in combating isolation.

Regular patrons like cleaner David Chatfield, full-time carer Angela Freebury, and former cleaner Brenda Whitby shared their positive experiences at bingo clubs, emphasizing the social connections and sense of belonging they provide.

While bingo halls are popular among older individuals and women, efforts are being made to attract younger players to ensure the sustainability of the industry.

Despite facing challenges such as the need for venue refurbishments and increased operational costs, Buzz Bingo has allocated £25 million for investments and reported improved business performance in renovated clubs.

Miles Baron, the CEO of The Bingo Association, highlighted the dual appeal of bingo for players seeking entertainment and social interaction, underscoring the importance of community engagement in the game.

Amid discussions about potential tax increases on gambling operators in the upcoming Budget, Mr. Mansour expressed concerns about the financial impact on bingo halls and emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between online and retail operations for the industry’s sustainability.

In light of these challenges, stakeholders like Mr. Mansour are advocating for a balanced approach that supports the social benefits of traditional bingo while addressing regulatory and financial pressures facing the sector.