A recent independent evaluation conducted by Ipsos has shed light on the effectiveness of Gamstop, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. The study, which surveyed over 4,650 users, offers detailed insights into how individuals perceive their experience with the service, revealing that the majority feel safer and more in control of their gambling behaviour after registering. With more than half a million registrations since its inception in 2018, Gamstop has emerged as a critical tool in the fight against gambling-related harm. However, the evaluation also points out areas that need attention, particularly around the challenges posed by unlicensed gambling platforms.
Positive Impact on User Safety and Control
One of the most significant findings of the Ipsos report is that Gamstop has made a positive impact on its users, with 72% of respondents saying they felt safer from gambling-related harm after registering. The national self-exclusion scheme enables individuals to voluntarily block access to all UK-licensed online gambling operators for a set period, making it a valuable resource for those struggling with gambling addiction or trying to manage their habits more responsibly.
In addition to feelings of increased safety, 75% of users reported feeling more in control of their gambling habits. This statistic highlights that Gamstop is not just a passive barrier but an active tool for users to regain control over a behaviour that might otherwise spiral out of control.
Common Reasons for Registration: Seeking Control and Financial Relief
The report also delves into the motivations behind why individuals choose to register with Gamstop. The most common reasons cited include:
55% signed up to stop gambling altogether.
55% registered to regain control of their lives.
51% aimed to reduce spending on gambling.
These findings illustrate that financial concerns and the need to regain personal control are primary drivers for those turning to self-exclusion schemes like Gamstop. The fact that over half of the respondents wanted to stop gambling entirely underscores the severity of the issue among users, while the near-equal percentage looking to regain control reflects the destructive impact gambling can have on everyday life.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement: The Issue of Unlicensed Gambling
While the results paint a largely positive picture of Gamstop’s impact, the Ipsos evaluation didn’t shy away from highlighting the system’s limitations. A major challenge identified by users is the availability of unlicensed gambling platforms. These illegal operators, which promote themselves as being outside of the Gamstop system, allow users to continue gambling even after they have opted for self-exclusion.
Several respondents noted that the existence of these platforms undermines their efforts to stop gambling, as they offer an accessible alternative that bypasses Gamstop’s protections. This not only poses a risk to individuals but also threatens the broader goal of reducing gambling-related harm across the UK.
The report strongly recommends that the UK Government, the Gambling Commission, and other stakeholders take action to address the black-market gambling scene. Stricter regulation and enforcement are necessary to close the gaps that allow illegal platforms to thrive, thereby strengthening the overall effectiveness of self-exclusion schemes like Gamstop.
Suggested Improvements: Longer Exclusion Periods and Support for Urges
Another notable finding from the report is that while Gamstop acts as an effective barrier, it does not eliminate the urge to gamble. Many users voiced concerns about their ongoing struggles with temptation, despite the service blocking access to licensed operators.
One suggestion that emerged from the feedback was the idea of offering longer or lifetime exclusion periods for those who feel they need a more permanent solution. Currently, Gamstop allows users to self-exclude for periods ranging from six months to five years. However, for individuals seeking to stop gambling altogether, a longer or indefinite exclusion period could provide a stronger sense of security and peace of mind.
Gamstop’s CEO Speaks on the Findings
Responding to the evaluation, Gamstop CEO Fiona Palmer acknowledged the positive feedback while recognising the need for continuous improvement. In a statement, she said:
“We regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the service through comprehensive independent research, and it is gratifying to know that most of our users feel Gamstop has helped them significantly reduce gambling-related harm.”
Her comments underscore the ongoing commitment of Gamstop to adapt and evolve in response to user needs, particularly in light of the challenges posed by illegal gambling and the urge to gamble even after exclusion.
Wider Outreach and Promotion of Responsible Gambling
In addition to refining its service, Gamstop is also actively expanding its outreach efforts. This month, the organisation partnered with The New Saints FC to promote Self-Exclusion Day, an event aimed at raising awareness about responsible gambling. This collaboration reflects Gamstop’s broader mission to not only provide tools for self-exclusion but also to engage with communities and promote safer gambling practices across the UK.
As awareness of problem gambling continues to grow, partnerships like this one are essential in reaching individuals who may be unaware of self-exclusion schemes or are hesitant to take the first step toward regaining control.
A Growing Need for Collaboration in Tackling Gambling-Related Harm
The findings from the Ipsos survey highlight that while Gamstop is an effective tool, it cannot be the sole solution to gambling-related harm. The problem is multi-faceted, requiring a collaborative approach between various stakeholders, including the government, regulatory bodies, and gambling operators themselves.
Stronger regulations to combat unlicensed gambling are vital, as is the development of support systems for users struggling with the ongoing urge to gamble. A comprehensive strategy that addresses both the licensed and black-market gambling sectors will ensure that individuals have the best chance of overcoming addiction and regaining control of their lives.
Since its launch in 2018, Gamstop has registered over 500,000 individuals seeking to block access to online gambling operators. The Ipsos evaluation reveals that the service has been instrumental in helping users feel safer and more in control of their gambling habits, with 73% expressing satisfaction with the service. However, challenges remain, particularly around the temptation to gamble on unlicensed platforms and the persistence of gambling urges even after exclusion.
As Gamstop continues to evolve, its role in the broader framework of responsible gambling in the UK will become even more critical. By addressing the areas for improvement highlighted in the Ipsos report, such as offering longer exclusion periods and tackling black-market operators, Gamstop can further enhance its impact and help more individuals break free from the cycle of problem gambling.