GambleAware Backs Mandatory Levy on Gross Gambling Yield

Independent safer gambling organization, GambleAware has increased calls for the government to impose a compulsory 1% levy on the gross gambling yield (GGY) of each gambling company in the United Kingdom.

According to the group, there is “a potential increased risk of people experiencing gambling harms” due to the current economic situation of the United Kingdom.

To meet this challenge, GambleAware proposed six principles, one of which is the mandatory 1% minimum levy. The charity stated that this levy should be added to the licensing conditions a gambling entity must meet before getting approval to launch in the UK. It continued that the funds generated would be used to treat, prevent, and research gambling problems.

Although gambling firms contribute voluntarily towards these causes, GambleAware opines that the mandatory levy would enable a funding model for “better long-term planning and commissioning for services.”

The ongoing impact of the pandemic, a growing cost-of-living crisis and shift to online gambling means there is a potential increased risk of people experiencing gambling harms that remains unseen until an individual reaches a crisis point. Without action now, many more people and families could suffer. That’s why we are calling on the government to introduce a mandatory 1% levy of GGY on the gambling industry as a condition of license.

Zoë OsmondGambleAware’s CEO

The other five principles outlined in GambleAware’s published agenda for change include scrutiny of gambling events through health, environmental, and different social lenses, support for deprived communities, and a ”coalition of expertise.”