GambleAware to Close as UK Transitions to Statutory Levy

As the UK gaming sector prepares to transition from its current voluntary gambling harm research, education and treatment (RET) donations system to a statutory levy, the government is getting ready to shutter GambleAware. The charity organization’s closure would mark the end of an entire era for British gaming.

The End of an Era

According to the announcement, GambleAware will begin a managed closure and will shut down by March 31, 2026 – a day before the launch of the statutory gambling harms system.

Until now, operators have made voluntary contributions toward RET initiatives. This system has been scrutinized by industry critics as it has made charities dependent on operators’ benevolence. At the same time, while some operators have made significant RET contributions, others have donated the minimum possible.

Conversely, the new statutory levy will apply to all operators and is expected to significantly increase the RET money in the UK.

In addition to dismantling GambleAware, the government will appoint three new national commissioners for gambling harms research, prevention and treatment, while shifting GambleAware’s responsibilities to public bodies in England, Scotland, and Wales.

The Statutory Levy Answers GambleAware’s Calls

GambleAware addressed the significant changes. Chair of trustees, Andy Boucher, noted that this change was not entirely unexpected and is in line with GambleAware’s long calls for the introduction of a statutory levy system.

Boucher said that he was proud of GambleAware’s impact over the years but said that his team recognizes the need for the coming changes.

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.

Andy Boucher, chair of trustees, GambleAware

Boucher thanked the GambleAware staff, leadership and Lived Experience Council for their incredible commitment to preventing gambling harm in the UK.

The Government Is Targeting a Smooth Transition

Minister for Gambling, Baroness Twycross. also addressed the upcoming changes. She thanked GambleAware for its incredible work in delivering effective services to people experiencing gambling-related harm.

Twycross promised that the new levy system will ensure a stable transition to maintain access to problem gambling support services.

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.

Baroness Twycross, Minister for Gambling

The announcement comes shortly after lawmakers decided to give £11 million to GambleAware to help it tackle harm.

In other news, the UK Gambling Commission just responded to the recent scrutiny of its Gambling Survey for Great Britain initiative.