GambleAware to close by 2026 as UK moves to statutory gambling levy system

After years as a leading commissioner of gambling harm services, GambleAware will cease operations by March 2026, aligning with the UK government’s shift toward a statutory levy model that places gambling harm mitigation under public sector oversight.

The transition moves commissioning responsibilities from third-sector organizations to public health bodies, including National Health Services (NHS) England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), and UK Research and Innovation.

The change will take full effect by April 1, 2026, and applies across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Commissioning transition and continued services

Andy Boucher, chair of trustees at GambleAware, said the charity supports the move and will work to maintain continuity over the next two years.

“We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation,” Boucher said. “Recognising the change across the system, trustees have decided that GambleAware, the charity, will work towards a managed closure by March 31, 2026.”

Boucher added that the organization will continue to fulfill its existing responsibilities until the new system is in place, and said its work has supported “tens of thousands of people,” particularly through its national campaigns and its commissioned partners, including the National Gambling Support Network.

“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 said.

As GambleAware enters the final phase of its commissioning work, Boucher urged NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Research and Innovation, and the appropriate bodies in Scotland and Wales, "to build upon the current system’s achievements and insights to ensure learnings are carried forward.”

The charity said its website and prevention resources will remain accessible during the transition.

Government and sector reactions

Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross acknowledged the contributions of GambleAware and the National Gambling Support Network.

“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 said.

“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.”

Following the announcement, Jordan Lea, CEO and founder of Deal Me Out, expressed concern about the process and its consequences in conversation with 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,” Lea told the aforementioned publication. “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.”

GamCare said it will seek meetings with NHS England, OHID, and relevant bodies in Scotland and Wales to discuss the transition and ensure continued support for affected individuals.