Anna Hargrave has been named as the new transition CEO for GambleAware.
Hargrave will lead the transition to the new gambling harms system while also managing the closure of...
GambleAware to shut down due to a new statutory system
The UK charity, GambleAware, is set to shut down by March 31, 2026, following the launch of a new statutory system to manage gabling-related harm.
The UK government introduced a statutory levy and appointed three national commissioners for gambling harms research, prevention, and treatment. GambleAware has long supported the move to a statutory, public health-led model, despite a change in responsibility for GambleAware’s work to public bodies across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Andy Boucher, Chair of Trustees at GambleAware, shared:
“We have advocated for the introduction of a statutory system for many years and are proud of our contribution to its implementation.
Our main priority continues to be keeping people safe from gambling harm and to ensure stability and continuity for our beneficiaries as the new commissioners take over.
As we enter the final phase of our commissioning work, we urge NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Research and Innovation, and the appropriate bodies in Scotland and Wales to build upon the current system’s achievements and insights to ensure learnings are carried forward.”
The organization helped tens of thousands of people, particularly through national campaigns and partnerships like the National Gambling Support Network.
However, the news of GambleAware’s closure sparked concern across the gambling harm sector.
Jordan Lea, CEO and Founder of Gambling-Related Harms Awareness and Education Charity at Deal Me Out, criticized the way the transition to the statutory levy has been handled:
“The cessation of the United Kingdoms most recognisable and trusted gambling harm charity is a stain on the implementation of the statutory levy.
Sadly, the announcement from GambleAware today was predictable, hundreds of job losses in the last 12 months, with more closures to come as a result of a mismanaged implementation of government policy.
My thoughts are with the team at GambleAware, who have acted with integrity throughout the whole process.”
The charity will continue to fulfill its existing commissioning responsibilities until the new system is fully in place in April 2026.
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