GamCare Reports Rising Gambling Debts With Record Referrals
GamCare has issued a warning over increasing gambling related debts and money worries among adults in the UK seeking support.
The alert follows new data from its branch, the Money Guidance Service (MGS), which shows that gambling debts have surpassed £5 million since January, nearly double the total recorded in 2024.
The MGS service was established by GamCare in 2022, it was designed to offer targeted help for individuals affected by gambling related harm and its financial consequences.
From January 2025 onwards, 1,151 people have been referred to MGS, exceeding the 923 referrals made during the whole of 2024. On average, individuals reported debts of £4,682, bringing the total for the first eight months of 2025 to over £5.3 million.
Growing Demand for Financial Support
The charity noted that demand for MGS assistance has risen sharply over the summer, with referrals in June, July and August more than doubling compared to the same months in 2024.
August 2025 set a new record with 198 referrals - the highest monthly number since MGS launched.
GamCare emphasized that the need for financial support is accelerating in 2025, driven by rising debt levels and a growing awareness of available assistance.
Concerning trends include people gambling with business funds, causing debts in the millions and others gambling to cover household bills, increasing financial vulnerability.
Kathy Wade, Money Guidance Service Manager of MGS, commented: “Many people struggling with gambling describe it as if it’s not real money. We often see young men chasing big financial wins, either through gambling or cryptocurrency, which can lead to risky behaviours and mounting debts.”
Second Alert in 2025
This is GamCare’s second warning this year on gambling related debt and financial harm. The charity stresses the importance of data driven measures to tackle these issues. Insights from MGS contribute to GamCare’s wider treatment and support services, including the National Gambling Helpline.
GamCare also called for MGS findings to inform the UK’s new statutory levy on problem gambling, which took effect in April 2025. The levy, funded by all licensed B2C and B2B operators, is managed by the NHS, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
Wade concluded: “It’s worrying when people turn to gambling to cover daily household costs under rising financial pressures. While many gamble responsibly, using gambling to pay essential bills is not advised.
“Our team is ready to support anyone concerned about the financial impact of gambling on themselves or others. Contact GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133 for guidance and assistance.”
