Growing Demand For Support Services
The statutory levy is introduced as demand for GamCare’s helpline and other support services continues to grow, with concerns about online slots among key challenges.
Key Points
- Funding for Gambling Harm Research: Statutory levy to fund gambling harm research, prevention, and treatment gains government approval.
- Helpline Call Records: National Gambling Helpline reports record 55,000 calls, with 45% citing online slots as a primary concern.
- Focus on Youth Protection: GamCare welcomes youth-focused stake limits and a focus on harm prevention.
Levy Announcement And GamCare’s Response
GamCare has welcomed the UK Government’s announcement of a statutory gambling levy, highlighting its significance in addressing the increasing demand for gambling harm prevention, treatment, and research.
Record-Breaking Helpline Activity
The announcement comes as the National Gambling Helpline reported record-breaking demand, receiving 55,000 calls over the past year. Nearly half (45%) оf these calls cited issues with online slot games, a sharp increase from 34% іn 2020-2021.
Leadership Statements
Mark Weiss, GamCare Deputy CEO, stated:
“At GamCare, our priority іs making sure that people who need support for gambling harms receive іt as quickly and effectively as possible. With a record 55,000 people calling the National Gambling Helpline last year alone, now іs the right time for this important clarity оn the future system.”
Youth-Focused Measures
In addition to the levy, new stake limits for online slot games, particularly for younger users, were also announced. GamCare described the youth-focused measures as an important step in mitigating future harm.
Pandemic Impact On Gambling
Good to know: GamCare attributes the rise to a growing focus on online gambling during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Weiss added:
“Having witnessed a steep rise in our Helpline callers citing difficulties with online slots, GamCare further welcomes the introduction of new youth-focussed stake limits – an important step in preventing future harm.”
Broader Implications
This development follows recent changes within GamCare itself, including the decision to end its Safer Gambling Standard certification program after a strategic review. However, services like the National Gambling Helpline will continue unaffected.
A Turning Point In Gambling Regulation
The introduction of the statutory levy marks a critical juncture in the government’s efforts to reform gambling regulations and address increasing concerns over the impact of gambling on individuals and communities.