Gambling addicts risk losing ‘life-saving’ help due to funding overhaul, say UK charities

Specialist clinics and support groups call for government emergency support due to delays caused by new levy system

Gambling addicts are at risk of missing out on life-saving" help unless the government provides emergency support, charities have warned, after an overhaul of funding left treatment providers facing a cash crunch.

Until this year, money for problem gambling research, education and treatment had been provided on a voluntary basis by casinos and bookmakers who contributed about 0.1% of their takings.