From Voluntary to Mandatory: UK Revamps Gambling Harm Framework

_{GambleAware's Andy Boucher will manage close down by March 2026. (Image: GambleAware)}

GambleAware, the leading charity dedicated to gambling harm in Great Britain, will officially close by 31 March 2026. In its place, the UK government will implement a new, publicly funded system to manage prevention, treatment, and research related to gambling addiction.

The announcement, made on Friday 25th July, signals the end of the voluntary model where gambling operators contributed donations to support harm reduction. Instead, companies will be legally required to pay a levy to fund the revamped framework.

"The introduction of the new statutory levy and the appointment of the three new commissioners for gambling harms research, prevention and treatment means that, as expected, the work historically delivered by GambleAware will now transition to the UK government and new commissioners across England, Scotland and Wales," said GambleAware Chair of Trustees Andy Boucher.

Transition to a State-Led System

Boucher emphasized that GambleAware has long supported the shift toward a statutory public health system. "We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation," he said.

He added that the charity's trustees have agreed to a managed closure, aiming for a full wind-down by March 2026. "We remain committed to fulfilling existing commissioning agreements until the new system is in place by April 2026. Our main priority continues to be keeping people safe from gambling harm and to ensure stability and continuity for our beneficiaries as the new commissioners take over."

GambleAware's legacy includes national prevention campaigns and partnerships like the National Gambling Support Network, which has supported thousands annually.

"Over the years, GambleAware and many third-sector partners have worked closely with the lived experience community to deliver a range of effective, evidence-based services," Boucher said.

"The National Gambling Support Network has been a cornerstone of this effort, supporting thousands of people annually."

He added that GambleAware’s national prevention programmes have reached millions. "Myself and other trustees are incredibly proud of the successful work that has been delivered over the years and the impact it has had across Great Britain."

Government Backing and Financial Overhaul

"Since 2017, GambleAware has championed the development of a statutory, public health-led system to address gambling harm," Boucher continued.

"We welcome this new era in which gambling harms are recognised alongside other public health issues and are funded through a statutory levy. As we enter the final phase of our commissioning work, we urge NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Research and Innovation, and the appropriate bodies in Scotland and Wales to build upon the current system’s achievements and insights to ensure learnings are carried forward."

He also acknowledged the team behind the charity’s work. "On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, I would like to also recognise the unwavering commitment and drive of the GambleAware staff, leadership team and Lived Experience Council. Their collective work over the years has played a pivotal role in advancing efforts to reduce and prevent harm across Great Britain."

New Levy System Built on Successful Work of GambleAware

Minister for Gambling Baroness Fiona Twycross thanked GambleAware staff and third-sector partners. "GambleAware and others across the third sector, including the National Gambling Support Network, have worked with tireless commitment over the years to commission and deliver effective services for people experiencing gambling-related harm," she said.

"As the new statutory gambling levy system comes into effect, managing a smooth and stable transition is an absolute priority, and we are taking significant steps to maintain service provision. The new levy system will build on the successes of the current system to improve and expand efforts to further understand, tackle and treat harmful gambling."

"I want to thank GambleAware and all their staff for their efforts to support those in need across our country."

Legislation for the new system was passed in February 2025 and will make operator contributions mandatory. The levy, which replaces the existing voluntary scheme, will range from 0.1% to 1.1% of gross gambling yield. The amount each operator pays will be calculated based on factors such as size, type of gambling services offered, and risk level.

The first payments are due by 1 October 2025 and are expected to generate at least £100m ($134m) annually.

GambleAware, formed in 2002, has helped fund treatment services and prevention campaigns, including the National Gambling Support Network. Its closure marks a major pivot in how the UK tackles gambling harms, moving from a charity-led approach to one integrated into public health infrastructure.