Gamstop, the UK’s national self-exclusion service for online gambling, has announced a significant milestone, with over 500,000 people registering since its launch in April 2018. The scheme, which allows users to exclude themselves from all UK Gambling Commission-licensed gambling sites for periods ranging from six months to five years, currently has more than 440,000 individuals actively excluded.
This achievement coincides with a record-breaking month for the platform, as 8,686 new registrants signed up in April—marking the highest monthly registration figure since Gamstop’s inception. In 2023 alone, more than 92,000 individuals joined the scheme.
“We have come a very long way since our launch in April 2018,” said Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop. “Gamstop is now widely recognised as an important tool to help vulnerable consumers take a break from their gambling. We are proud to have been able to help hundreds of thousands of people take back control of their lives through self-exclusion. We hope to help many more in the years to come.”
Rising Online Gambling Activity
Gamstop’s growth mirrors a sharp increase in online gambling activity across the UK. According to UK Gambling Commission data, both Q1 and Q2 of 2023 marked record gross gambling yields (GGY) for the online sector. Between May and July, real event betting attracted 19.4 million active players, reflecting a 10.9% year-on-year increase. Similarly, online slots saw a 10.8% growth, with 13.3 million players during the same period.
Concerning Trend Among Younger Players
One notable trend flagged by Gamstop involves the growing number of younger players registering for self-exclusion. Data for the first half of 2023 revealed that 50% of new registrants were aged between 16 and 35, with a 12% year-on-year rise in those aged 16-24 opting for self-exclusion.
Recent research by the Gambling Commission highlights the prevalence of problem gambling, particularly among men and younger demographics. The survey indicated that 2.5% of respondents had experienced problem gambling, with those under 35 showing higher rates of harm.
Positive Impact of Gamstop
Gamstop’s role in promoting responsible gambling has been well-received, as demonstrated by an independent evaluation conducted by Ipsos. The survey, which included 4,650 users (representing 1% of Gamstop’s total users), revealed that 78% of respondents felt the scheme met their expectations, and 75% reported feeling more in control of their gambling.
National Self Exclusion Day Campaign
In a bid to raise further awareness, English football clubs will use National Self Exclusion Day on September 12 to promote Gamstop’s benefits. Self-exclusion messaging will be displayed in stadiums over the weekend of September 7-8, with digital assets shared across partner clubs’ social media platforms.
Gamstop continues to play a vital role in the UK’s efforts to promote safer gambling, helping those struggling with gambling addiction to regain control and improve their well-being.