GambleAware to close as UK government takes over

GambleAware, the charity that’s been front and center in the fight against gambling harm in the United Kingdom, is preparing to close its doors. After years of running prevention campaigns, funding research, and connecting people with support, GambleAware will officially shut down by March 31, 2026. The company’s services will instead shift to a new platform as part of new government regulation.

The UK government is introducing a new system in which public institutions, rather than charities, will lead the commissioning of research, prevention, and treatment services for gambling-related harm. This shift is driven by a new statutory levy, a mandatory charge on gambling companies, to raise over £100 million annually to fund these crucial services.

Why did GameAware close?

For years, GambleAware’s work was funded voluntarily by the gambling industry. While the charity campaigned hard for a more stable and transparent system, critics pointed to potential conflicts of interest. The new levy, brought in after a major update to UK gambling laws, means all industry players must now pay their fair share. This will end the donation system, provide reliable funding, and put public authorities in the driver’s seat.

In practice, not much will change for people seeking help right now. GambleAware is making sure all its resources, including its website and support tools, stay active during the overlap. The new system also includes three national commissioners who will focus separately on research, prevention, and treatment to ensure those services stay robust.

“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,” emphasised Andy Boucher, the chair of trustees at GambleAware.

This transition marks a huge moment for the UK’s approach to gambling risks, moving from a charity-led landscape with patchy, voluntary funding to a fully public, health-focused system where support is standardized and protected for the long haul.

While it’s the end of an era for GambleAware, it’s not the end of help for those who need it. If you or a loved one are worried about gambling, support lines remain open today and will continue when the government takes charge.