Gamble Aware to Shut Down in 2026 Due to New Gambling Addiction Levy

British gambling charity Gamble Aware will cease operations by March 31, 2026, following the introduction of mandatory levies for gambling operators aimed at combating gambling addiction, reports Gambling Insider.

Gamble Aware has been working to tackle gambling addiction in the UK, previously funded through voluntary contributions from gambling companies.

Operators were encouraged by Gamble Aware to donate at least 0.1% of their annual gross revenue, a recommendation most companies have followed.

These funds have been channeled into various initiatives and projects dedicated to preventing and treating gambling addiction. However, the organization’s role has now become redundant as the UK government plans to introduce mandatory gambling levies starting next year.

Under the new scheme, bookmakers and casinos in the UK will pay an annual levy ranging from 0.1% to 1.1% of their gross revenue, depending on the type of gambling activities they provide.

Online bookmakers and online casinos, for instance, will pay 1.1%, while land-based casinos will contribute 0.5%.

The UK government anticipates the new mandatory levy will raise at least £100 million annually, with local authorities overseeing the distribution of these funds towards gambling addiction treatment and prevention programs.