GambleAware to Cease Operations in 2026 Due to New Mandatory Levy on Online Casinos
GambleAware, a British charity dedicated to minimizing gambling-related harm, will cease its operations in March 2026. The organization is dissolving as a result of a new mandatory levy that British online casinos will be required to pay starting in 2026, rendering GambleAware’s purpose redundant.
Andy Boucher, Chairman of the Board of GambleAware, stated that the organization remains committed to its ongoing projects until its official closure. The work currently undertaken by the charity will be assumed by the British government in collaboration with new partners across England, Scotland, and Wales.
GambleAware’s Closure Triggered by Mandatory Levy
In April 2026, new regulations will come into effect, obligating British online casinos to contribute between 0.1% and 1.1% of their gross gaming revenue towards the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction.
- 50% of the funds generated by this new levy will be allocated to the direct treatment of gambling addiction through institutions in England, Wales, and Scotland.
- 30% of the levy’s revenue will be used for preventative measures.
- The remaining 20% will be dedicated to research purposes.
According to Boucher, this new method of financing the treatment and prevention of gambling-related harm makes GambleAware’s existence unnecessary, leading to its closure.
“The introduction of the new statutory levy and the appointment of three new regulatory bodies for research, prevention, and treatment of gambling harm means that, as expected, the work previously carried out by GambleAware will now be transferred to the British government and the new regulators in England, Scotland, and Wales.”
Andy Boucher, Chairman of the Board, GambleAware
A Groundbreaking Step
With the new levy and the assumption of responsibility for combating gambling problems, the British government is taking a significant step. Baroness Fiona Twycross, the British Minister for Gambling, is confident that the new approach will be successful and expressed appreciation for GambleAware’s work over the years:
“GambleAware and other third-sector organizations, including the National Gambling Support Network, have worked tirelessly for years to develop effective services for people experiencing harm from gambling. The new levy system will build on the successes of the current system to improve and expand the approach to and treatment of harmful gambling. I would like to thank GambleAware and all its staff for their commitment to people in need in our country.”
Baroness Fiona Twycross, British Minister for Gambling
In 2023, GambleAware received £32.8 million from the UK Gambling Commission, providing support in the lead-up to the implementation of the statutory levy.
Despite working towards the completion of its activities and eventual closure in 2026, GambleAware remains active. Recently, the organization launched a new support app for individuals seeking to reduce or stop gambling, specifically targeting young adults.
Stay ahead of the curve in the fast-paced online casino world – explore the latest updates and trends at listofallcasinos.com.
