New Levy For the NHS and Slots Cap Announced by Government

Key Takeaways 💬

• UK introduces a mandatory £100 million levy on gambling firms to fund problem gambling treatment.
• Online slots capped at £2 for 18-24s and £5 for older players to prevent harm.
• The NHS and campaigners back the measures, with a review set for 2030.

Not everybody realises, but the levy is not in fact brand new – there has been a levy in place already, but some companies were able to pay just £1 annually. The changes mean that it is no longer voluntary and gambling companies will have to pay towards the fund.

Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross discussed the changes and the fact that this would raise money for the NHS:

“Gambling harm can ruin people’s finances, relationships, and ultimately lives. We are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk, as well as providing effective support for those affected. The introduction of the first legally mandated levy will be instrumental in supporting research, raising awareness and reducing the stigma around gambling-related harm.”

The Government spent time consulting with the public as well as healthcare professionals, before deciding on the route forward. Campaign groups have long called for this kind of levy, as the industry is continually generating profits. Some feel that the gambling companies need to do more to prevent problem gambling.

Introducing Limits

Another similar measure was introduced for slots, trying to prevent people from gambling beyond their means. The Government also confirmed that there would now be online slot limits, £5 per spin for over 25s and £2 for young adults aged 18 to 24. That means at UK-regulated casinos there will be no way to bet more than £5 per spin. 18-24s were identified as a high-risk group and this is why the limits are lower for this age group.

Claire Murdoch, NHS national director for mental health, said:

“I am delighted to welcome this commitment to a mandatory gambling levy which the NHS, bereaved families and the voluntary sector have been calling for so we can treat this growing problem – and we will continue to work with government to do all we can to protect problem gamblers from this billion-pound industry.”

The new measures will run until 2030 when there is expected to be a review of the progress and state of the industry.