In order to combat the negative effects of gambling, British casinos and bookies will be subject to an obligatory fee beginning in April. This charge, which will take the place of the voluntary donation system, intends to raise £100 million ($125.6 million) a year for programs related to treatment, education, and research.
Gambling operators must contribute an average of 1% of their gross gambling yield (GGY) to the statutory tax. This rate will vary from 0.1% to 1.1% based on the industry. The charge is anticipated to bring in about £109 million ($137 million) a year, according to latest figures from the Gambling Commission, which revealed sector revenues of £10.9 billion ($13.7 billion) last year.
Funds will support NHS addiction clinics, educational campaigns, school programs, and suicide prevention initiatives. In England, half of the funds will directly benefit NHS gambling treatment services, with the remainder allocated to Scotland and Wales.
Additionally, stake limits for online slot games will be introduced. Players aged 25 and older will face a £5 ($6.3) per spin limit, while younger players, aged 18 to 24, will see a £2 ($2.5) cap.
Industry Reactions and Government Goals
Baroness Twycross, the Gambling Minister, emphasized the significance of the levy. “We are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk, as well as providing effective support for those affected,” she said.
Iain Duncan Smith, chair of the all-party parliamentary group on gambling harms, praised the initiative, calling it a “seismic moment” and a critical step toward addressing gambling-related issues.
However, the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) expressed mixed views. While the council supported the idea of mandatory payments, it raised concerns about the financial strain on land-based operators and third-sector service providers. A BGC spokesperson called for a sliding scale for businesses with higher fixed costs and stressed the need for independent fund allocation.
NHS national director for mental health, Claire Murdoch, noted a 129% increase in referrals to NHS gambling services over the past year, underscoring the urgency of these measures.
With funds managed independently of industry influence, the new levy and regulatory updates represent a landmark effort to reduce gambling-related harm in the UK.
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