The UK Government has officially appointed the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) as the Gambling Harm Prevention Commissioner. This move signals a commitment to a more structured, government-led approach to tackling gambling-related harm, aligning with growing calls for stricter industry regulations.

This development comes amid growing calls for stricter regulations to ensure gambling operators contribute fairly to addiction prevention and support services. Organisations like GambleAware and GamCare have welcomed the move, emphasising the need for proper funding and community-based interventions to tackle gambling-related harms effectively.

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Calls for Stronger Gambling Regulations Intensify

GambleAware, a leading charity advocating for gambling harm prevention, has welcomed the appointment, emphasising the importance of a statutory framework in addressing what it describes as a significant public health issue. CEO Zoë Osmond OBE and Chair of Trustees Prof. Siân Griffiths CBE both stressed the need for a collaborative and transparent system to mitigate gambling-related risks.

OHID’s appointment follows renewed pressure from regulatory bodies and advocacy groups for tougher restrictions on high-risk gambling products. A recent GambleAware report, published in January 2025, highlighted concerns over electronic gaming machines, online casino games, and loot boxes, advocating for enhanced consumer protections, lower stake limits, and additional safety measures for online gambling.

The UK Government has also introduced a mandatory gambling levy, expected to generate approximately £100 million annually for harm prevention and treatment services. However, some industry stakeholders have questioned whether the measures outlined in the Government’s Gambling White Paper are sufficient to protect vulnerable consumers.

Industry Reactions and Concerns Over OHID’s Oversight

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has expressed cautious support for the new regulatory framework, particularly regarding the introduction of a mandatory levy to fund research, prevention, and treatment (RPT) programs. However, the organisation has raised concerns over OHID’s oversight and past reports on gambling-related harm.

A BGC spokesperson said that the BGC supports the plans outlined in the White Paper concerning the introduction of a mandatory levy, provided it remains independent, protects long-established RPT providers in the third sector, and applies a tiered approach to avoid disproportionate impacts on land-based operators. The commentator went on to make the point that given OHID’s previous flawed report on gambling in 2023, it would be imperative that the Levy Board maintain strict oversight, ensuring transparency, rigorous evaluation, and external auditing.

Moreover, the spokesperson also pointed out that BGC members and licensed operators have voluntarily contributed over £170 million over the last four years to combat problem gambling, including £50 million in 2024 alone. This funding has supported an independent network of charities currently assisting 85% of problem gamblers receiving treatment in the UK.

GamCare Highlights the Need for Early Intervention

GamCare, the organisation behind the National Gambling Helpline, has also voiced support for OHID’s appointment. The charity has long advocated for a public health-based approach to gambling harm prevention, citing the importance of early intervention strategies.

According to GamCare, the average person seeking help for gambling addiction has been struggling for 11 years before reaching out for support. With OHID at the helm and sustainable funding through the new statutory levy, GamCare hopes to see a more coordinated prevention strategy at the local, regional, and national levels.

“There is much work to be done to ensure that the experience and expertise of the third sector remain embedded in the support ecosystem,” a GamCare representative stated. “During the transition to the new statutory system, we remain committed to maintaining and expanding our vital services for those in need.”

In 2024 alone, GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline received 55,000 calls, and its prevention and education programs reached nearly 65,000 children, young people, parents, and professionals. The organisation stresses that prevention must be prioritised alongside treatment, ensuring that those at risk receive the necessary support before gambling harm escalates.

Is This A Turning Point for Gambling Harm Prevention?

In essence, the appointment of OHID as the Prevention Commissioner for Gambling Harms marks a significant step in the UK’s regulatory landscape. While organisations such as GambleAware and GamCare welcome the move, the effectiveness of the new framework will depend on strong oversight, clear protocols, and continuous evaluation.

As the British Government continues to work on its approach to gambling harm prevention, stakeholders across the industry will be closely monitoring how OHID implements its mandate and whether additional regulatory measures will be introduced to protect consumers further.

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