Government to Wind Down GambleAware in 2026
More details about how GambleAware will wind down its operations have been provided ahead of the organisation’s upcoming closure.
GambleAware will close its doors in the next year. © Pixabay
Key Facts:
- GambleAware will cease operations in the first half of 2026
- Organisation provides support around gambling issues was accountable to the Charity Commission and its Board of Trustees
- It was funded by voluntary contributions from gambling firms
- But the upcoming statutory levy has led to its closure
GambleAware’s closure had been expected, but it has now been confirmed that it will shut down in the early months of 2026.
The organisation, which was funded by voluntary contributions from companies within the gambling sector, is no longer considered necessary.
GambleAware’s closure is linked to the ongoing launch of the Labour government’s new statutory gambling levy, with the first payments due in October.
With the government expecting to bring in around £100 million from the levy, GambleAware is not required, and the body will be shuttered by April 1.
Until then, GambleAware will continue to provide people with free advice, tools and support.
Tireless Commitment
Baroness Twycross, the government’s minister for gambling, was full of praise for GambleAware during the last eight years.
In a statement, she noted that its work with other organisations like GambleAware has been crucial.
The minister stated that bodies like GambleAware have “worked with tireless commitment over the years to commission and deliver effective services for people experiencing gambling-related harm”.
Baroness Twycross added: “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.”
Proud of New Levy
Having been set up nearly a decade ago, GambleAware will continue its commitments until next April’s closure date.
Andy Boucher, GambleAware’s chair of trustees, said the government will take over the body’s work in the wake of the upcoming statutory levy.
He said: “We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation.”
Boucher highlighted how GambleAware has supported tens of thousands of people during its lifespan, including via the National Gambling Support Network.
He said: “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. The GambleAware website and critical prevention resources provide accessible support for all.”
