Leading organisations that support people harmed by gambling have sounded an urgent warning that treatment services could soon face widespread disruption. They say government delays in managing a new funding model have placed clinics and support groups under severe financial pressure. Without emergency intervention, many fear they will be unable to continue offering life-saving care.
Until recently, gambling operators voluntarily funded addiction services by contributing a small proportion of their revenue. The new mandatory levy, introduced this year, aims to generate far more funding from the industry. However, the transition has been slowed by bureaucratic hurdles, leaving many charities without clarity on future financing.
The NHS is now responsible for allocating funding to service providersa major shift from the previous system. But charities say they still do not know what standards or criteria must be met to secure support. This uncertainty is affecting staffing, planning, and the ability to accept new referrals.
Former patients have shared stories of how treatment transformed their lives or prevented tragedy. Many say they fear for others who may not receive help in time if services are interrupted. Frontline workers say the stress caused by the current funding void is already taking its toll on clients.
Charities are urging the government to release interim funding to stabilise services while the new system is refined. They also want clearer direction on how future commissioning will be conducted. Officials say they aim to maintain continuity of care but have not confirmed any immediate financial relief.