GamStop Report Highlights an Increase in Young Registrants

GamStop has reported a rise in the number of self-excluded people, highlighting a concerning increase in young adults seeking its services. While the higher number of excluded players may also suggest more harm, it also underscores the improved visibility of safer gambling tools.

According to the non-profit organization, a total of 49,500 people have excluded themselves from online gambling in the first half of 2024. This figure comes after GamStop recorded a significant number of new registrations in April.

The month, for context, saw 8,686 new registrants opt to exclude themselves from online gambling. This was notably the highest monthly number ever recorded by GamStop.

Euro 2024 Drove Higher Number of Self-Exclusions

High figures were driven by major sporting events, such as UEFA Euro 2024. The soccer championship led to an 8% spike in registrations year-on-year for the first half of July. England’s victories over Serbia and Slovakia and the Euro 2024 finals were the games that prompted the highest number of GamStop registrations. According to GamStop, this emphasizes the effect of sports on betting behavior.

Further data shows that almost half of the new registrants selected the maximum exclusion period of five years offered by GamStop. This trend, according to the charity, highlights that players understand the dangers of excessive gambling and desire to protect themselves in the long term.

By the end of H1, a total of 482,815 British players had excluded themselves from gambling via GamStop.

GamStop Is Concerned about the Number of Young Registrants

GamStop’s chief executive officer, Fiona Palmer, was optimistic about the increasing number of GamStop registrants, saying that it demonstrates a “growing awareness and proactive approach among individuals to tackle gambling-related issues.”

Palmer, however, was very concerned about the increase in the number of younger players making GamStop accounts. While the higher number of younger registrants suggests that people are more aware of the tools available to them, it also highlights a high number of young adults struggling with their gambling.

To elaborate, GamStop recorded an increase of 12% in self-exclusions among players aged 16-24.

Palmer believes that problem gambling education and treatment should focus on targeted interventions to help struggling young people.

In the meantime, GamStop will continue to enhance its exclusion services and try to reach more people. Additionally, the charity hopes to provide its registrants with better education and understanding of the safer gambling tools and methods available to them.