CQC backs calls for continuity in UK gambling support

(AsiaGameHub) –   The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has called on the UK’s new gambling harm treatment commissioners to maintain continuity during the shift to a statutory levy.

Charities part of the National Gambling Support Network were commended for delivering ‘safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led’ treatment. 

However, the CQC also recognized worries raised by GambleAware that the ongoing quality of care could be impacted as service commissioning moves to the NHS under a new funding model.

The report stated: “We would urge commissioners to review the findings of this report to make sure services continue to provide care in a similar way so that people experiencing gambling harms still receive the care and support they need, and that there is ongoing oversight and assessment of the quality of services.”

The Gambling Commission and GambleAware requested the CQC to conduct the review, with inspections occurring from May 2025 to March 2026.

The 14 charities included in the review were the EPIC Restart Foundation, ARA Recovery For All, NECA, Gordon Moody, Beacon Counselling Trust, Primary Care Gambling Service, Aquarius, GamCare, GamCare Helpline, Adferiad, RCA Trust (Scotland), Betknowmore UK, Breakeven and Reframe Coaching.

Findings showed that individuals dealing with gambling harm ‘could access services when needed and received personalized, needs-based treatment and support’.

Longheld concerns

The CQC joins a growing list of organizations expressing fears that the funding transition will slow treatment progress as the NHS becomes the primary treatment administrator, with services divided between England, Scotland and Wales.

GambleAware noted in its legacy report ahead of closing on 31 March: “There is a concern that differences in local capacity could mean that the quality of services varies from place to place. Without deliberate action, these risks could erode progress made in prevention, early intervention, and equity of response.”

The Welsh Government has already granted the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board £1.3 million to operate a gambling helpline for those with gambling problems in Wales.

However, this will run alongside the well-known National Gambling Helpline operated by GamCare, sparking worries about confusion for people seeking help.

GamCare confirmed it has contacted Welsh Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy regarding the decision, aiming to clarify how the two services will work together to support those in need.

The charity’s CEO, Victoria Corbishley, said: “The shared aim must be to minimise any confusion for those reaching out in moments of vulnerability. Our focus remains firmly on the people we serve.”

Independence vote

Organizations like GamCare are currently learning how much funding they’ll receive from the £120 million raised in the first year of the statutory levy—funded by a percentage of UK licensed operators’ gross gaming yield.

But uncertainty around funding for longstanding charities has grown due to rumors that groups with past industry ties would be excluded.

However, this position seems to be easing, according to Duncan Garvie, founder of BetBlocker.

Speaking at the Illegal Gambling Prevention Summit, he said: “Pragmatically, there was always going to be some level of disruption. What I hope to see if a softening of positions and to reach a place where all stakeholders can be included in the conversation without the stigmatisation.”

During the third sector charity review, GamCare shared that the CQC found no evidence its support and treatment were influenced by the gambling industry.

Corbishley welcomed the feedback, stating that being recognized as independent is ‘fundamental to the trust people place in us’.

“This independent assessment is important assurance for commissioners, partners, and above all for the people who rely on our services,” she added.