GamCare Responds as GambleAware Confirms Closure by 2026

GamCare has issued a public tribute to GambleAware following confirmation that the long-standing gambling harm prevention charity will cease operations by March 2026. As the UK transitions to a new statutory gambling harms framework, GamCare has reaffirmed its intention to maintain the National Gambling Helpline while it seeks clarity on its future role.

GambleAware’s decision to wind down operations aligns with the UK government’s rollout of a public health-led system. This shift introduces a statutory levy and new commissioners responsible for the research, prevention, and treatment of gambling harms across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Andy Boucher, Chair of Trustees at GambleAware, described this moment as pivotal: “We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation.” He highlighted that the charity would continue to meet its existing commissioning obligations until the transition concludes on 1 April 2026.

Tributes and Uncertainty Amid Transition

GamCare, which has historically received its funding through GambleAware as part of the National Gambling Support Network, referred to the charity’s closure as a “defining transition point for the sector.” The helpline provider thanked GambleAware’s staff and trustees for their longstanding “dedication and commitment.”

However, the future of services previously supported through GambleAware remains uncertain. GamCare indicated it will now seek early meetings with NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, and relevant bodies in Scotland and Wales to assess the impact of the change. It also emphasized the importance of continuing to work with new government commissioners to preserve access to vital support services.

The charity stated that it remains committed to helping vulnerable individuals and hopes to “continue working with the new commissioners within the Government to maintain operation of the helpline.”

A Decade of Influence and Service

GambleAware, active for decades in the UK’s voluntary funding model, has played a prominent role in supporting those affected by gambling harms. Since 2017, the organization has championed a statutory, public health-led approach to addressing gambling issues.

In his statement, Boucher said, “GambleAware’s national prevention programmes have also provided crucial advice, tools and support to millions of people in order to reduce gambling harm.” He acknowledged the contributions of third-sector partners and those with lived experience in shaping the charity’s success, particularly through the National Gambling Support Network.

Minister for Gambling, Baroness Twycross, also paid tribute to the organization: “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.”

She added that ensuring continuity of services during this transition is essential: “Managing a smooth and stable transition is an absolute priority, and we are taking significant steps to maintain service provision.”

Sector Concerns Over Transition Process

Despite the recognition from government officials and peers, GambleAware’s closure has not been met without criticism. Jordan Lea, CEO and founder of the charity Deal Me Out, expressed deep concern over the process: “The cessation of the United Kingdom’s most recognisable and trusted gambling harm charity is a stain on the implementation of the statutory levy.”

Lea criticized what he described as poor execution of government policy, citing job losses and organizational closures: “Sadly, the announcement from GambleAware today was predictable, hundreds of job losses in the last 12 months, with more closures to come.”

In 2024, prior to the statutory levy’s enforcement, GambleAware received just over £24 million in donations from operators – the lowest figure since 2021. Under the new system, it will receive up to £11 million during the transition period, with this one-off sum agreed upon by NHS England and devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales.

While the charity prepares for closure, its website and prevention resources will remain active to support those seeking help.

Source:

GambleAware statement on the new statutory gambling harms system and the future of the charity, gambleaware.org July 25, 2025.