Several problem gambling charities in the UK are reportedly struggling to keep their heads above water. On Monday, NEXT.io revealed that sources familiar with the sector said that insolvency is looming due to the staggered rollout of a mandatory levy on land-based and online gambling operators, creating a shortfall in funding.
Operators paid the new mandatory levy for the first time in September. The funds are supposed to be distributed gradually until March 2026 as part of a transition period. NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, NHS Wales, and NHS Scotland will then fully manage the money rather than relying on industry-linked charities like GambleAware to do so.
charities are experiencing delays in getting the money
Despite GambleAware controlling a £32.8m ($44m) System Stabilisation Fund to ensure charities have enough funding during this period, some are complaining about the lack of transparency. One source speaking to NEXT.io said that the £32.8m is nowhere near big enough to go around.
While the first round of statutory levy payments is supposed to be distributed in October, many charities now don’t think this will happen until early 2026. Several organizations are now looking at ways to raise funds or dip into their emergency reserves. The lived experience body Alert Group has already shuttered, while others have to lay off workers or cut some of their essential services.
GambleAware Chief Executive Zoe Osmond rejects the claims that it hasn’t handled the funding situation transparently.
