UK: Gamstop reports 40% rise in young self-excluders in H2 2025

UK gambling self-exclusion service Gamstop Online saw a 40% increase in registrations from 16 to 24 year olds in the second half of 2025.

Between July and December 2025, the service recorded 58,675 total new registrations, averaging 319 per day, with players aged 16-24 making up 29% of sign-ups during the period, according to the latest report.

A total of 562,000 players had registered with Gamstop by year-end, which allows users to self-exclude for six months, one year, or five years. Among younger users, the six-month exclusion was most popular, chosen by 38%, while across all age groups the five-year option dominated, with 47% selecting it.

December 2025 also marked one year since the introduction of Gamstop’s “five years with auto-renewal” option, designed to provide an effective lifetime block unless the user opts out. Gamstop reports that take-up has steadily increased, with more than 50% of consumers choosing a minimum five-year exclusion selecting auto-renewal in December, the first time this level has been reached since its launch.

Gamstop Group CEO Fiona Palmer noted that the year-on-year growth in registrations underscores the increasing need for effective self-exclusion tools. “The rise in take-up of our auto-renewal option, in particular, shows that many consumers are seeking longer-term support and recognise the value of self-exclusion in helping them manage their gambling," she stated.

In a separate development, Gamstop has formally integrated the Multi Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme for Betting Shops (MOSES) into its operations. The scheme has been rebranded as Gamstop Betting Shops, aiming to connect more closely with online self-exclusion.

Registration for Gamstop Betting Shops was only available via telephone before, but consumers can now register online. Approximately 9,000 people are currently registered with the land-based scheme.

“Our brand refresh reflects the evolution of Gamstop and will deliver clarity, consistency, and accessibility while preserving the trust and integrity built over the last eight years since we launched,” Palmer said.