Key points:
- Statutory levy to fund gambling harm research, prevention and treatment gains government approval
- National Gambling Helpline reports record 55,000 calls, with 45% citing online slots as a primary concern
- GamCare welcomes youth-focused stake limits and a focus on harm prevention
GamCare has welcomed the UK Government’s announcement of a statutory gambling levy, highlighting its significance in addressing the increasing demand for gambling harm prevention, treatment and research.
The announcement comes as the National Gambling Helpline reported record-breaking demand, receiving 55,000 calls over the past year. Nearly half (45%) of these calls cited issues with online slot games, a sharp increase from 34% in 2020-2021.
Mark Weiss, GamCare Deputy CEO, said: “At GamCare, our priority is making sure that people who need support for gambling harms receive it as quickly and effectively as possible. With a record 55,000 people calling the National Gambling Helpline last year alone, now is the right time for this important clarity on the future system.”
In addition to the levy, new stake limits for online slot games, particularly for younger users, were also announced.
GamCare described the youth-focused measures as an important step in mitigating future harm.
Good to know: GamCare attributes the rise to a growing focus on online gambling during and after the Covid-19 pandemic
Weiss added: “Having witnessed a steep rise in our Helpline callers citing difficulties with online slots, GamCare further welcomes the introduction of new youth-focussed stake limits – an important step in preventing future harm.”
This development follows recent changes within GamCare itself, including the decision to end its Safer Gambling Standard certification program after a strategic review. However, services like the National Gambling Helpline will continue unaffected.
The introduction of the statutory levy marks a critical juncture in the government’s efforts to reform gambling regulations and address increasing concerns over the impact of gambling on individuals and communities.
