GambleAware study finds five million in UK seek to reduce gambling

A new analysis released by GambleAware estimates that more than five million people across Britain want to reduce or quit gambling, with the majority seeking to do so despite not meeting the criteria for problem gambling.

The figures come from the charity's annual Treatment & Support survey, conducted by YouGov, which found that three in ten young adults aged 18-34 who gamble would like to cut back or stop.

The results point to growing interest in early support measures and an increased willingness among younger players to reassess their gambling habits before harm escalates.

GambleAware's prevention tools continue to be widely used. Since launching its Self-Assessment tool in April 2023, the charity has recorded more than 87,000 completions, offering users tailored feedback, guidance and signposting toward free and confidential support.

The Service Finder, introduced in July 2024, has received more than 42,000 searches and over 13,000 referral clicks to support providers.

The online directory connects individuals with local services across the National Gambling Support Network, which comprises 13 organisations offering one-to-one counselling, residential care and post-treatment programmes.

In addition, almost 6,000 people have used the Spend Calculator since it launched in December 2023.

The tool gives users insight into their gambling spend and frequency, alongside recommendations based on the Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines, which advise gambling no more than 1% of income, on no more than four days per month, and avoiding more than two types of gambling activity.

GambleAware Chief Executive Anna Hargrave said: "Five million people want to reduce or quit their gambling, which highlights just how much our tools and services are needed, as well as those that sit within the National Gambling Support Network. However gambling is making you feel, there is help available."

She noted that the charity is working with commissioners as the new statutory gambling harms system transitions toward full implementation by April 2026.

A study published by GambleAware in October 2025 found that gambling-related harm is highest among young adults living in the most deprived areas of the UK, with an estimated 11% problem gambling rate among 18-24-year-olds in those neighbourhoods.