The UK government is working with the UKGC to introduce new rules protecting players from harm. A key part of this is a statutory levy launched in April 2025. It requires operators to contribute funds towards gambling addiction prevention, treatment, and research.

This shift from a voluntary to a mandatory system will significantly impact charities like GamCare. The responsible gambling organization provides information campaigns and tools to support players.

From Voluntary to Statutory: What’s Changing and Why

After a thorough consultation led by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in 2023, the UKGC started preparations for implementing a statutory levy.

This levy was launched on April 6th, 2025 and will be collected every year, with invoices issued to operators each September. Here’s an overview of the payment dates:

• September 1st – Invoices for levy are sent to operators with data based on the previous year’s activity.
• October 1st – Deadline for the levy payment.

The statutory levy will require operators to donate part of their GGR to research, treatment, and prevention of gambling addiction. The amount to be paid will be based on the following factors:

• the operator’s gross gambling yield
• the revenue retained after paying out prizes and charities
• the gross value of sales or other amounts related to authorized gambling

Under the voluntary system, some operators would only donate around £1 for responsible gambling causes. This change will provide more stable funding for organizations like GamCare, enabling it to continue its programs. It will also increase transparency and accountability, as operators will be required to provide accurate financial data.

Why the Government Pushed for the Levy

The government has been intensifying efforts to improve accountability and transparency in the gambling industry. In 2020, it introduced rules that reduced VIP schemes by 95%. Meanwhile, many MPs have called for even stricter regulations and a new Gambling Act.

A UKGC study in 2023 found that over a million people in the UK may be suffering from gambling problems. That has led to the public demanding that the government formalize funding for gambling harm to prevent further issues.

GambleAware’s Closure: End of an Era

The government isn’t the only one preparing for the future. GambleAware will wind down its operations by April 2026 after more than 20 years of service.

As a leading advocate for a statutory levy, GambleAware has supported the transition. It believes that centralized funding will improve transparency and accountability.

It will continue operating until the government’s systems are fully in place. GambleAware also recently launched a self-help app that will remain operational.

Under the new system, the government plans to distribute 50% of the funds for treatment, 30% for prevention, and 20% for research.

The NHS will be the lead commissioner for gambling harm services. Commissioners across England, Wales, and Scotland will manage the support network.

GamCare’s New Role: Awareness, Support, and Adaptation

With GambleAware shutting down, GamCare will also need to adapt, as the organization was its main funding source. The unstable funding situation has also caused it to shut down some of its programs. One such casualty is the gambling harm prevention and education program for under-18s.

However, GamCare is adapting to the changes. It continues offering its services with a new headquarters in Salisbury House. Some of those services include:

• EmpowerMe – A digital tool that helps guide players towards understanding their situation and how to prevent addiction.
• SMS Support – Motivational text messages to help prevent addiction.
• MyGamCare – A hub for the organization’s responsible gambling tools.
• Chatrooms and forums – A space to connect with players in similar situations and receive support.

GamCare operates the National Gambling Helpline. It is part of the National Gambling Support Network, which offers recovery courses and interventions.

It also runs educational campaigns. The most recent campaign aims to raise awareness among men aged 18 to 44, and those affected by someone else’s gambling. It encourages individuals to seek help when needed.

From Awareness to Action

GamCare shares the government’s goal of improving outreach and early intervention. Its awareness campaigns have helped people understand the available tools. This led to a 25% increase in calls and online chats according to its 2024 annual report.

Industry Impact: What the UK Gambling Levy Means for You

The statutory levy greatly impacts players as it increases accountability and responsibility. Legitimate operators will now have a clearer understanding of their contributions to responsible gambling initiatives. Organizations like GamCare will also have better funding for programs, but must adjust to a new structure.

Meanwhile, operators will have more opportunities to work with responsible gambling organizations. They’ll be able to get help to improve responsible gambling messaging and can receive better tools to assist players on their sites. Operators providing accurate financial data will also help the government make sure they have enough funds to protect players.

Conclusion: A New Era for Gambling Accountability

The UK is undergoing significant changes, with long-time organizations shutting down and new rules being introduced. Regulators must work with operators and support services to implement the new standards properly. While GamCare is adjusting, it will serve as a bridge that can ensure the policy adequately helps problem gamblers.