GambleAware to enter ‘new era’ of gambling reform with ‘managed closure’
Charity confirms closure ahead of shift to government-led commissioning
Key points:
– GambleAware will close by 31 March 2026 as a new statutory system for gambling harms is introduced
– Services will remain in place until national commissioners begin work in April 2026
GambleAware has confirmed it will work towards a managed closure by 31 March 2026, as part of the planned transition to a new statutory system addressing gambling-related harms across England, Scotland and Wales.
The GambleAware website and key prevention resources will remain active until the transition is complete.
Andy Boucher, GambleAware Chair of Trustees, reflected on the charity’s activities, including national prevention programmes and work with the National Gambling Support Network and called for future bodies to build on the existing evidence base and partnerships.
Boucher stated: “The introduction of the new statutory levy and the appointment of the three new commissioners for gambling harms research, prevention and treatment means that, as expected, the work historically delivered by GambleAware will now transition to the UK government and new commissioners across England, Scotland and Wales.”
He emphasised that GambleAware would continue to fulfil existing commissioning responsibilities: “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”
Good to know: Responsibility for commissioning gambling harm services will transfer to public bodies across the UK from April 2026
Baroness Twycross, Minister for Gambling, also recognised the role of third sector organisations. She added: “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.
This announcement follows GambleAware’s recent launch of a self-help app, developed in response to rising support needs among young gamblers and designed to provide anonymous, evidence-based assistance to millions across Great Britain.
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