Leading commissioner of gambling harm prevention programmes in Great Britain, GambleAware, has announced the receipt of £49.5 million in from the gambling industry for the financial year 2023/24. The funds are earmarked for critical services such as public health campaigns, education, treatment, and research aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of gambling. The majority of the donations, amounting to £46.6 million, came from the four largest gambling operators in the country. This figure marks the culmination of a four-year commitment by these operators to increase their contributions from 0.25% to 1% of their Gross Gambling Yield (GGY).

GambleAware facing funding uncertainty

Despite the significant voluntary support, GambleAware has expressed concerns about the funding uncertainty for the upcoming financial year, 2024/25. The charity is calling for minimal disruption as the industry transitions to a statutory levy system, which is expected to provide a more stable and sustainable funding source for gambling harm prevention and treatment services. GambleAware’s work includes the operation of the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN) and the National Gambling Helpline, which offer free, confidential support to those affected by gambling-related issues. Additionally, the organisation commissions research and evaluation studies to enhance understanding and prevention strategies for gambling harm.

Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, emphasised the importance of continued voluntary funding during the transition period, stating, “While we await the implementation of the new statutory levy, donations from the voluntary funding system are key to ensure GambleAware can continue to deliver the essential gambling harm prevention and treatment programmes we commission.”

She also highlighted the need for a smooth transition, saying, “During the transition period, it is vital that steps continue to be taken to ensure there is no disruption to existing services and provisions in the wider system as they adapt to the new levy funding model.” In addition to voluntary donations, GambleAware received £33.5 million in regulatory settlement funds from the Gambling Commission. These funds are intended to support the gambling harm prevention, support, and treatment system during the transition to the statutory levy. The allocation of these funds is part of the Gambling Commission’s efforts to enforce regulations and ensure compliance within the industry.

SiGMA East Europe Summit

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