UK-based gambling charity GamCare has reported a sharp rise in the number of people seeking financial guidance over gambling debts in 2025.
The charity revealed that more people have already sought support for gambling-related debts this year than during the whole of 2024.
Since January, over £5 million of gambling debt has been reported across the UK.
Calls for gambling reform have grown louder, with several Labour MPs urging tougher action to address gambling-related harm.
Meanwhile, Chris Pond, 73, the newly appointed GAMSTOP chair, has pledged to prioritise self-exclusion initiatives and other support measures in response to the increase in registrations with the charity.
What Other Data Has GamCare Found?
GamCare has reported a significant rise in registrations to its Money Guidance Service, with more referrals already this year than in 2024. So far, there have been 1,151 referrals, compared with 923 for the entirety of last year.
Even during the typically quieter summer period (June to August), referrals doubled compared to the same time frame in 2024, indicating that demand for gambling debt support is growing year-round.
The total debt reported by those accessing the service stands at £5.3 million, with an average of £4,682 per person. By comparison, total gambling debt reported in 2024 was £2.8 million, meaning the figure has almost doubled in less than a year.
Where Are The Areas Of Concern?
Within this rising tide of debt, the charity has highlighted several areas of concern. One involves individuals using business funds to gamble, in some cases spending millions of pounds intended for company expenses.
Another high-risk group includes people already in financial difficulty, who are turning to gambling in an attempt to cover everyday costs and outstanding bills.
However, it’s not all bleak. Through its money advice service, GamCare’s advisers have helped clients identify £60,000 in unclaimed benefits, providing crucial financial relief for those struggling with debt.
August recorded the highest number of referrals to the Money Guidance Service so far this year, with 198 cases.
This latest data from GamCare underlines the growing link between gambling and personal debt in the UK, with 2025 already surpassing last year’s figures in just nine months.
