Ahead of the implementation of a mandatory levy for gambling harm research, education, and treatment (RET) programs, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has granted funding to GambleAware to stabilize the RET system during the transition. The funds come from regulatory settlements agreed by the agency and a number of sanctioned operators since 2019.
System Stabilization During Transition to Mandatory Levy
GambleAware has received a total of £32,844,197.31 from the UKGC which will ensure system stabilization during the shift from voluntary system to a mandatory levy. Additionally, the funds will allow the charity to step up its commissioning efforts in terms of reducing inequalities in outcomes, access, and experience.
A portion of the funds will also be used to develop an integrated system powered by digital technology which will improve access to RET services.
Priority Areas for Research
When it comes to research, the UKGC has set out three priority areas – system research to inform commissioning or service provision, continuing to establish the gambling harms evidence base, and evidence translation and dissemination. The most recent funding allocation for GambleAware from the UKGC marks another record high for the regulator which in April 2020 also handed out £8.8 million to the grant-making charity.
The mandatory levy is among the recommendations contained in the Gambling Act Review White Paper. The measure has received strong backing from GambleAware.