Charities Warn Gamblers Could Lose Lifeline Amid Funding Delays

Charities supporting people harmed by gambling say hundreds of lives could be put at risk as treatment providers face an unexpected funding gap. They warn that without emergency government intervention, many vulnerable individuals may be left without specialist help at a critical moment. The transition to a new mandatory levy, which changes how treatment is financed, has created uncertainty across the sector.
For years, gambling operators voluntarily contributed a small percentage of their revenue to fund research and addiction services. This system has now been replaced with a compulsory levy designed to generate far more money for treatment. While the policy aims to create stability, delays in distributing the funds have left clinics and charities struggling.
Under the new rules, the NHS is responsible for commissioning services that were previously funded directly through charities. But leading organisations, including GamCare and Gordon Moody, say the process has been plagued by unclear expectations, shifting requirements, and slow decision-making. Smaller providers that depend on referrals fear they may not survive the transition.
People currently undergoing treatment are increasingly anxious about the future of their support. Former addicts, who credit these services with saving their lives, warn that any disruption could lead to a rise in mental-health crises and even suicides. Frontline staff say they are already seeing the effects of uncertainty on clients.
Charities are calling on the government to approve temporary funding to keep services running while the new commissioning system is finalised. They argue that the stakes are too high to risk gaps in care. The government says it is working to ensure a smooth shift but has not yet confirmed whether emergency funds will be provided.