GamCare Data Shows Sharp Rise in Gambling-Linked Financial Distress

Leading UK charity GamCare has raised alarms over the growing financial strain among people experiencing gambling harm. New figures revealed that demand for its Money Guidance Service (MGS) has surged to record levels in 2025. While the organization drew attention to its successful initiatives, it noted that problem gambling remains a growing issue.

More People than Ever Are Seeking Assistance

The MGS addresses a gap in GamCare’s support system, providing specialist monetary advice to tackle gambling-related harm. It helps individuals regain control over their money while addressing the behaviours that caused the financial distress. The service had successful pilots in the East Midlands and Yorkshire & the Humber, immediately demonstrating its value.

GamCare recently launched an evaluation of the MGS, seeking to measure its impact and implement potential improvements. Since January, 1,151 people have been referred into the service, surpassing the 923 referrals across the whole of 2024. August alone saw 198 referrals, a monthly record since the program launched in 2023. 

Our team is here for anyone who may be unsure of the financial impact that gambling may be having on them, whether their own gambling or someone else’s.

Kathy Wade, GamCare head of Money Guidance Service

Since its inception, the MGS has had a profound impact, with users reporting reduced debts, better budgeting habits, and a stronger sense of financial stability. Recent figures, however, reveal another twist: people entering the service this year have reported combined debts of over £5.3 million ($7.1 million), a nearly two-fold increase from last year, with each person averaging £4,682 ($6,242).

Timely Intervention Remains Critical

GamCare drew attention to some of the more severe addiction cases. Some individuals reportedly even embezzled business funds to gamble, racking up debts that reach into the millions. Others report trying to cover day-to-day expenses by hoping to win through gambling, which GamCare considers especially concerning during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

We know that many people gamble safely, but we would not encourage anyone to gamble to make extra money to cover their essential bills.

Kathy Wade, GamCare head of Money Guidance Service

In addition to debt management, the MGS has helped identify over £60,000 ($80,000) worth of unclaimed benefits for users since the beginning of 2024, providing them with a vital lifeline. Kathy Wade, the head of Money Guidance Service, noted that many of the people seeking assistance were young men who thought that gambling and cryptocurrency trading would lead to quick and easy gains. 

We often hear from people who struggle with gambling that it doesn’t feel like real money they are betting with.

Kathy Wade, GamCare head of Money Guidance Service

GamCare also operates the 24/7 National Gambling Helpline, which remains a critical contact point for gamblers in crisis. With demand for GamCare services at an all-time high, the charity urges anyone concerned about their own or a loved one’s gambling to seek early help. Wade pointed out that timely intervention is the best way to prevent harm from spiraling out of control.