GambleAware, long a central figure in commissioning gambling harm services, will formally cease operations by the end of March 2026. This planned closure aligns with the UK government's adoption of a statutory levy model, which shifts responsibility for tackling gambling-related harm from third-sector organizations to public agencies.
Under the new framework, commissioning duties will transition to public health authorities such as NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), and UK Research and Innovation. The overhaul will be fully in place by April 1, 2026, across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Transition Planning and Continued Support
Andy Boucher, Chair of Trustees at GambleAware, affirmed the charity's support for the government's new direction and emphasized the organization's role in ensuring a smooth transition.
"We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation. Recognizing the change across the system, trustees have decided that GambleAware, the charity, will work towards a managed closure by March 31, 2026," Boucher said.
Until then, GambleAware will continue to deliver its current services and maintain its role in providing support through its network of partners, including the National Gambling Support Network. Boucher highlighted the charity's impact over the years, noting that its efforts have reached "tens of thousands of people" through prevention campaigns and commissioned services.
"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," he added.
As the charity nears the end of its commissioning responsibilities, Boucher called on incoming public bodies - NHS England, OHID, UK Research and Innovation, and their counterparts in Scotland and Wales - "to build upon the current system's achievements and insights to ensure learnings are carried forward."
GambleAware confirmed that its website and preventive resources will remain available during the transition period.
Reactions across Government and the Sector
Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross acknowledged the contributions of GambleAware and its partners within the third sector.
"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."
However, the news has raised concerns among some sector leaders. Jordan Lea, CEO and founder of Deal Me Out, voiced strong criticism of how the transition has been handled.
Lea told NEXT.io.,"The cessation of the United Kingdom's most recognisable and trusted gambling harm charity is a stain on the implementation of the statutory levy. Sadly, the announcement from GambleAware today was predictable, hundreds of job losses in the last 12 months, with more closures to come as a result of a mismanaged implementation of government policy."
In response to the changes, GamCare stated it intends to engage with NHS England, OHID, and the appropriate authorities in Scotland and Wales to ensure ongoing support for those affected by gambling harm.
Source: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/07/28/112938-gambleaware-to-close-by-2026-as-uk-moves-to-statutory-gambling-levy-system
