Gamstop Users Feel Safe and In Control, According to Report
The study, which surveyed over 4,650 users, found that 78% reported Gamstop had achieved the results they were seeking, with 80% stating they would recommend the service to others.
An independent evaluation conducted by Ipsos has revealed that most Gamstop users feel safer and more in control of their gambling behaviour after registering with the national self-exclusion scheme.
The study, which surveyed over 4,650 users, found that 78% reported Gamstop had achieved the results they were seeking, with 80% stating they would recommend the service to others.
Published on 18 September 2024, the research highlighted that 73% of users were satisfied with the service, a figure that rose to 85% among those who no longer engage in gambling.
Additionally, 72% of respondents said they felt safer from the potential harms associated with gambling after registering with Gamstop, with three-quarters reporting they felt more in control of their gambling habits.
Since its launch in 2018, more than 500,000 individuals have used Gamstop to block access to UK-licensed online gambling operators. The report found that the primary reasons for registration were to stop gambling altogether (55%), regain control of life (55%), and reduce gambling expenditure (51%).
While the feedback was largely positive, the evaluation identified areas for improvement. Many users noted that although the service provides an effective barrier to online gambling, it does not entirely eliminate the urge to gamble.
The report suggested offering longer or lifetime exclusion periods to provide greater peace of mind, particularly for those aiming to quit gambling permanently.
A key concern raised by users was the availability of unlicensed gambling platforms. Some respondents reported engaging with illegal operators who promote themselves as not being part of the Gamstop system.
The evaluation recommends that the UK Government, the Gambling Commission, and other stakeholders take action to address black-market gambling and tighten regulations around the promotion of these platforms.
In response to the findings, the report emphasizes that while Gamstop is an effective tool for reducing gambling-related harm from licensed operators, further efforts are needed to combat illegal gambling activity.
Gamstop CEO Fiona Palmer commented:
“We regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the service through comprehensive independent research and it is gratifying to know that most of our users feel Gamstop has helped them significantly reduce gambling-related harm.”
