GambleAware to Close as UK Moves to Statutory Gambling Levy
Introduction to the Transition in UK Gambling Harm Prevention
The UK gambling industry is set to experience a significant change as it moves from a voluntary system for funding gambling harm research, education, and treatment to a mandatory statutory levy. This shift will lead to the closure of GambleAware, a prominent charity that has long been involved in addressing gambling-related harm within the country.
Closing a Chapter: The End of GambleAware
GambleAware has announced a planned managed closure, which will be completed by March 31, 2026. This date marks the day before the statutory levy system is set to commence. Until now, gambling operators have voluntarily contributed to funding initiatives aimed at reducing gambling harm. However, this approach has faced criticism due to its reliance on the goodwill of operators, with some contributing generously while others provided minimal support.
The new statutory levy will require all gambling operators to contribute, ensuring a more consistent and potentially increased funding stream to support research, education, and treatment efforts related to gambling harms.
Along with winding down GambleAware, the government will introduce three national commissioners responsible for overseeing gambling harm research, prevention, and treatment. The responsibilities previously handled by GambleAware will be redistributed to public agencies across England, Scotland, and Wales.
GambleAware Welcomes the New Levy System
Andy Boucher, Chair of GambleAware’s trustees, acknowledged the upcoming changes, emphasizing that the move towards a statutory levy aligns with the organization’s long-standing advocacy for such a system. While proud of GambleAware’s achievements over the years, Boucher highlighted the necessity of this transition.
He assured that GambleAware remains committed to fulfilling all current obligations until the implementation of the new system in April 2026, with a focus on safeguarding those affected by gambling harms and ensuring a smooth handover to the incoming commissioners.
Boucher expressed gratitude to the organization’s staff, leadership, and the Lived Experience Council for their dedication to combating gambling harm in the UK.
Government Commitment to a Smooth Changeover
Baroness Twycross, the Minister for Gambling, also addressed the forthcoming reforms, commending GambleAware for its significant contributions in supporting individuals affected by gambling problems.
She underscored the government’s priority of a seamless transition to maintain uninterrupted access to support services for problem gamblers under the new levy system.
The new mandatory system aims to build upon the strengths of the previous arrangement, enhancing efforts to understand, prevent, and treat harms caused by gambling.
Recent Developments and Broader Context
This announcement coincides with recent governmental decisions, including a substantial funding allocation of £11 million to GambleAware intended to bolster its harm reduction initiatives.
Additionally, the UK Gambling Commission has responded to scrutiny concerning its Gambling Survey for Great Britain by committing to improvements in this area.