GambleAware to be replaced by the State in March 2026
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28 Jul 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes This is a major turning point for the regulation of gambling-related harm in the United Kingdom. After years of advocating for stable public funding, the charity GambleAware will cease operations for good in March 2026. The announcement was made following the introduction of a mandatory statutory levy to replace the current system of voluntary contributions from gambling operators.
What does the future hold for prevention and treatment services?
The model is changing radically: the tasks previously carried out by the charity will be transferred to public bodies. Three national commissioners will be appointed to oversee research, prevention and treatment of gambling addiction in England, Scotland and Wales respectively.
Why is this change being welcomed?
The British government adopted this reform in order to quell criticism of charities’ dependence on private donations and to guarantee sustainable funding. The rates levied will vary between 0.1% and 1.1% of operators’ gross revenues, depending on their vertical and operating costs. The aim is to raise around £100 million per year, half of which will be allocated to the NHS for treatment, 30% to prevention via the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, and 20% to research via UK Research and Innovation.
Andy Boucher, Chair of the GambleAware Board:
“We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years. We are proud of our contribution to its implementation. Alongside this, we are also proud of the impact GambleAware’s prevention and treatment activity has had in supporting tens of thousands of people over the years, through our national campaigns and our commissioned partners, including the National Gambling Support Network. Recognising the change across the system, trustees have decided that GambleAware, the charity, will work towards a managed closure.”
Baroness Fiona Twycross, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Gambling, pays tribute to the work accomplished:
“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. 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.”
What will happen until closure?
During this transition period, GambleAware will continue to fulfil its contractual responsibilities, ensuring the continuity of its services. The website, prevention resources and national campaigns will remain active until the new public system is fully operational, which is scheduled for April 2026.
And after March 2026?
The public approach is officially taking over. The new public structures will need to build on GambleAware’s achievements and draw on the experience gained, particularly around the National Gambling Support Network, to extend its impact. The government will also need to preserve the empathy, expertise and legitimacy developed by GambleAware over the years.
The planned closure of GambleAware on 31 March 2026 marks the end of a long period based on voluntary philanthropy. The introduction of the statutory levy establishes a public model, requiring greater transparency and stability. While this change is widely welcomed for its ambition, it also raises questions about the loss of expertise and the ability of public structures to extend or enrich the charity’s legacy. The challenge now is to ensure a smooth transition, preserve what has been achieved and maintain continuity of essential services for all citizens concerned.