Summer of Sport Fuels Fears of Gambling Surge
A major sporting summer in 2026 is predicted to significantly increase problem gambling across the UK, according to fresh research from Nationwide building society and various charities. The findings highlight growing concerns about the accessibility of online betting and its impact on vulnerable individuals.
The Rising Tide of Betting
More than two-thirds (68%) of UK gamblers surveyed anticipate increasing their betting activity in 2026, driven primarily by a packed sports calendar. Football, particularly the World Cup, is expected to be a major draw, alongside events like the Champions League final and Royal Ascot horse racing. Cricket’s Men’s T20 World Cup and the Six Nations rugby championship are also contributing factors.
Financial Strain and Vulnerability
Nationwide’s data reveals the potential financial risks associated with increased gambling. The most active 10% of their gambling customers spend an average of £745 per month. Overall spending in January showed a 9% increase compared to the previous year, with transaction volumes up 7%.
Kathryn Townsend, head of customer vulnerability for Nationwide, expressed concern that more people could find themselves gambling beyond their means.
Increased Demand for Support
The National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare, reported a substantial increase in referrals for treatment and support. Last month saw 996 referrals, a 48% rise from 674 in January 2025. This surge underscores the growing need for accessible support services.
Raminta Diliso, senior partnerships manager at GamCare, points to the ease of access through mobile apps and online platforms as a key driver of problem gambling, describing it as “like having a betting shop in your pocket.”
Tools and Initiatives to Combat Harm
GamCare emphasizes the importance of tools like payment blocking and bet delay mechanisms to help individuals control impulsive betting. Calls to the helpline increased by 10% in the three months following the Uefa Euro football championship in 2021.
The Gambling Harms Action Lab, a project of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute (founded by Martin Lewis), is collaborating with banks like Nationwide, Barclays, HSBC, and Monzo to pilot new tools. These tools aim to identify and support individuals exhibiting harmful gambling behaviors.
Nikki Bond, head of the Lab, highlights the discreet nature of mobile gambling, noting that individuals can gamble without friends or family being aware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is problem gambling?
Problem gambling is when gambling causes significant distress and negatively impacts a person’s life.
Where can I secure help for gambling addiction?
You can contact the National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare.
Can banks help with problem gambling?
Yes, banks can track gambling spending and offer tools to help customers control their betting.
What are payment blocking tools?
These tools allow individuals to block payments to gambling sites for a set period.
Did you understand? The ease of access to online gambling platforms is a major contributing factor to the rise in problem gambling.
Pro Tip: If you are struggling with gambling, reach out for help. There are resources available to support you.
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