GAMSTOP: peak in registrations among under-25s
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13 Feb 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes In the second half of 2024, GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion programme for online gambling, saw a 31% increase in registrations among under-25s.
A rising trend
Between April 2018 and the end of 2024, 532,484 people registered on GAMSTOP, a number representing more than 1% of the UK’s adult population. In 2024, the number of under-25s registering increased by 31% on the previous year. Currently, 24% of self-excluded people are aged between 16 and 24.
There are several reasons for this increase. The major sporting events of 2024, such as the Olympic Games and the European Football Championship, may have stimulated interest in online betting.
GAMSTOP also analysed the data by region. Hull has the highest percentage of registrations, with 1.5% of its local population registered, followed by Teesside and Sunderland at 1.4%.
New self-exclusion options
In response to user feedback and increased registrations, GAMSTOP has introduced a new 5-year auto-exclusion option with automatic renewal. This enhancement allows players looking for a long-term commitment to not have to worry about reactivating their account after the initial exclusion period.
This option aims to provide a more robust solution for players in difficulty, ensuring that they are blocked from online gambling sites for the long term. According to industry experts, this feature could help reduce the relapse rate, particularly among young adults who are more vulnerable to excessive gambling.
GAMSTOP also plans to improve the user experience by working with support organisations and stepping up its awareness campaigns. The aim is to provide young gamblers with more information about the dangers of gambling and the solutions available to help them regain control of their gambling habits.
The management’s point of view
Fiona Palmer, CEO of GAMSTOP, said:
‘There is a clear need for targeted education and support aimed at this group which is why we continue to put so much emphasis on collaborating with Ygam and Gamcare reaching out to students. We go to where they are to ensure they are aware of tools, such as self-exclusion, which can help to prevent gambling harm. GAMSTOP allows vulnerable consumers to take a break from gambling, and we want to raise awareness of the service amongst those who need it most. Our detailed regional data has highlighted the postcodes where self-exclusion has been most widely adopted, and we hope this will help local authorities and other bodies to target appropriate support in the areas where the need is greatest.’
These statistics highlight the importance of raising awareness and educating young people about the risks associated with online gambling. Targeted initiatives are essential to provide the necessary support to this vulnerable age group.
How does self-exclusion work in Belgium?
The process of self-exclusion is simple and accessible. A player can register on the EPIS list via the website of the Gaming Commission or directly on approved online gambling platforms. After registering, the player will no longer have access to gambling, be it sports betting, casino games, poker or slot machines. This measure is not only a brake on addiction, but also part of a broader legal framework aimed at limiting the impact of gaming companies on vulnerable players.