GamStop, the free national self-exclusion scheme for UK online gambling, has published its annual report for 2025-26, revealing a 25 per cent increase in new registrations compared to the previous year. The scheme, which allows individuals to block themselves from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites for a minimum of six months, now has over 400,000 active registrations. The figures suggest that awareness of self-exclusion tools is growing, though questions remain about whether the system is reaching those who need it most.
Key Findings from the Report
The annual report highlights several notable trends. The 25 per cent registration increase is the largest year-on-year growth since GamStop launched in 2018. The median age of new registrants has dropped to 29, down from 33 two years ago, suggesting that younger players are increasingly aware of and willing to use self-exclusion tools.
Women now account for 28 per cent of new registrations, up from 22 per cent in the previous reporting period. GamStop attributes this partly to targeted awareness campaigns run in partnership with GamCare and the National Gambling Treatment Service.
The report also notes that the average self-exclusion period chosen by new registrants has increased. More users are selecting the maximum five-year exclusion rather than the minimum six-month period, which GamStop interprets as a sign that people are making more considered, long-term decisions about their gambling behaviour.
Why Registration Numbers Are Rising
Several factors are driving the growth. Increased regulatory pressure on operators to promote self-exclusion tools more prominently has made GamStop more visible to players. The UKGC now requires all licensed operators to display GamStop information clearly within their account management areas and during the registration process.
Broader cultural shifts around mental health and wellbeing have also contributed. Gambling harm is increasingly discussed in mainstream media, and public figures sharing their experiences have helped to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.
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Limitations and Criticisms
Despite the positive headline figures, GamStop continues to face criticism from some quarters. The scheme only covers UKGC-licensed online operators, which means that individuals can still access offshore or unlicensed gambling sites after registering. This loophole has been a persistent concern for charities and treatment providers.
There have also been calls for GamStop to extend its coverage to land-based gambling venues, though the logistical challenges of enforcing self-exclusion across thousands of physical locations are considerable.
Some players have reported difficulties with the reinstatement process, finding it either too easy or too difficult to remove their self-exclusion once the chosen period has elapsed. GamStop has acknowledged these concerns and says it is reviewing its reinstatement procedures as part of an ongoing service improvement programme.
What Players Should Know
GamStop registration is free and takes only a few minutes. Once registered, the individual is blocked from logging in or creating new accounts at all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites. The scheme covers casinos, sports betting, bingo, and lottery sites.
Players considering self-exclusion should also be aware of additional support services. GamCare offers free counselling and advice on 0808 8020 133, and the National Gambling Treatment Service provides structured therapy programmes for those experiencing gambling-related harm.
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