UK Announces £30M Fund to Strengthen Gambling Harm Prevention Efforts
UK Government Launches £30 Million Fund for Gambling Harm Prevention
The UK government has introduced a significant £30 million fund aimed at supporting voluntary and community organizations dedicated to preventing gambling-related harm. This initiative, led by the Department of Health and Social Care, represents the first stage of a two-year plan designed to fill the financial gap until the implementation of a new statutory levy system.
Objectives and Funding Details
The announcement came during an information session held on October 26, during which officials revealed that applications for the fund are open for expressions of interest until January 9. Formal applications will be accepted starting January 12, with grant decisions anticipated by early spring. The initial payments are expected to be distributed from April onward.
The fund comprises three main elements: direct prevention initiatives targeting individuals and communities before gambling harms escalate; support for innovation to test new methods or adapt effective strategies from other areas; and enhancement of organizational capacity through increased staffing, training, and system upgrades. Grants will range from £5,000 to £2 million.
Addressing Sector Challenges and Financial Uncertainty
This new funding effort responds to growing concerns within the gambling harm sector, where many non-profits have reported financial difficulties due to uncertainty around the timing of statutory levy funds. The competition for limited financial support has caused tensions and disputes among charities, highlighting the need for more stable and predictable funding mechanisms.
Commitment to Industry-Independent Funding by 2030
Applicants for the fund are expected to aim for an industry-free funding status by the year 2030. While many organizations still rely on contributions from the gambling industry, the government has pledged a pragmatic approach during the upcoming two years. During this transitional period, funding from the National Lottery will not be considered industry money, although this policy may be revisited later.
From April 2026, stricter rules will require organizations receiving funds to no longer accept donations from gambling operators. To support this transition, the Government Grants Management Service will introduce the Find a Grant digital portal to simplify monitoring and reporting processes.
Implications of Recent Tax Increases in the Gambling Sector
The fund arrives amid major changes in the gambling industry, including a recent tax increase from 21% to 40%. Experts warn this hike might drive more players to unlicensed gambling sites, raising the risk of harm and placing additional strain on already stretched prevention organizations. Consequently, this new fund is seen as vital to strengthening the UK’s harm prevention infrastructure ahead of the statutory levy system’s full rollout.
