In the second half of 2024, GAMSTOP recorded a 31% surge in self-exclusion registrations among young people. Those aged 16 to 24 made up 24% of all new sign-ups – a sharp rise compared to previous years. What is behind this unusual increase? Let’s explore the key factors behind this trend.

What Is Self-Exclusion?

Self-exclusion is a tool that can help prevent problem gambling by excluding you from gambling sites. After signing up with GAMSTOP, your details will be stored in a database. If you attempt to register at any participating site, it will check this database and block you.

The program is voluntary, so you must complete a form to participate. You should always ensure your information is accurate and that you have valid ID documents. You can also update your details at any time. Here is a guide on the process and information required to complete your account:

• Enter your email address – Make sure you enter every email address you have to prevent any loopholes.
• Provide personal details – Input your name, date of birth, phone number and postal address.
• Verify your identity – You may need to provide a selfie with your ID and proof of address, like a utility bill.
• Wait up to 24 hours – It can take up to a day for your account to become active.

If you have any casino accounts, you should withdraw any funds before registering at GAMSTOP. Like other self-exclusion systems, you can exclude yourself for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. Once activated, you can’t reverse it — you`re locked out until the period expires. Aside from GAMSTOP, legitimate casinos will also allow you to self-exclude by contacting their customer support.

Why Are More Young People Self-Excluding?

Self-exclusion among 16- to 24-year-olds saw a 31% increase in the second half of 2024, following a 30% surge in 2023. In previous years, self-exclusion rates typically rose during the winter months. For example, the number of registrants increased by 245 in March 2023 after the Cheltenham Festival horse racing event.

The organization has also increased efforts to promote the program. This includes showing testimonials and case studies of users on their website. The jump in registrations may be influenced by this approach, leading to a significant rise when compared to reports from previous years:

Similarly, both the Olympics and Euro Cup were held during the summer of 2024. This may be one of the reasons why registrations increased. These days, people also have a higher awareness of problem gambling tools and are more willing to sign up. According to the latest evaluation of GAMSTOP, younger people are more likely to have heard about the program through word-of-mouth.

Currently, 1% of the UK’s adult population is signed up for GAMSTOP. That reflects a concerning trend: people under the age of 35 are at a higher risk of problem gambling. According to a study by the UKGC, the Gross Gambling Yield for sports betting increased by 16%, contributing to the rise of self-exclusion.

Which UK Regions Are Most Affected?

GAMSTOP released data on the regions with the highest self-exclusion rates and the number of new registrants. Hull accounted for the highest number, with around 1.5% of the region’s population participating in the program. That is due to the prevalence of gambling establishments in the area.

Hull City Council’s Public Health Intelligence team commissioned several Health and Wellbeing Surveys to gather data about gambling issues. It was revealed that all citizens were within an eight-minute drive from a gambling establishment. Also, around 44% gambled every month. While Hull has the highest rate of self-exclusion, a few other areas have significant rates:

• Sunderland
• Teesside
• Doncaster
• Blackpool

Hull City Council’s surveys also found that most people aged 16-24 were likelier to gamble online. Also, they don’t participate as much in the National Lottery. Additionally, while men in this age group don’t gamble monthly as much as other groups, they are more likely to display problem gambling behavior. That’s why education initiatives are vital.

Why is Youth Problem Gambling Increasing?

Studies conducted by the UKGC have shown that more young people are gambling with their own money in recent years. In 2024, over 27% of those aged between 11 and 17 had gambled with personal funds on regulated games. Many started betting socially with friends or family.

Around 80% of the study’s respondents claim they gamble because it’s fun, showing that the reasons are not purely monetary. They are also frequently exposed to gambling advertisements online. Some children live with parents who gamble. As such, it becomes crucial to provide tools and education to young people so they can avoid problem gambling.

GAMSTOP’s efforts to curb problem gambling include the five-year auto-renewal system. You can opt-in to have your exclusion extended automatically. You will also receive updates if your account expires or is renewed. While many users still want longer self-exclusion periods, according to Ipsos’ 2024 evaluation, this is a good alternative.

Other Methods to Prevent Problem Gambling

While self-exclusion is useful, it’s most effective among those who sign up for it themselves, rather than being registered by family and friends. Additionally, the Ipsos evaluation revealed that 60% of users rely purely on GAMSTOP. That’s why the organization is increasing its efforts to provide other tools and promote education on youth gambling awareness.

For example, during and after the Euro 2024 tournament, GAMSTOP ran a social media campaign to raise awareness of self-exclusion tools. In September, it ran its National Self-Exclusion Day event. Several football clubs promoted the program, and stadiums even featured self-exclusion messages. The organization also frequently partners with other initiatives like:

• Gamban
• GamCare
• YGam
• Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust

Some of GAMSTOP’s other projects include TalkBanStop. It works alongside GamCare and Gamban to provide consultations for players and allow them to block their devices from accessing online gambling sites. During the holidays in 2023, GAMSTOP also ran an ad campaign targeting young men to increase awareness. The initiative likely affected the number of registrants in 2024.

Final Thoughts: Is Self-Exclusion Enough?

More young people are using self-exclusion tools, proving that awareness campaigns work. But the rise in self-exclusions also signals a growing issue — youth problem gambling isn’t slowing down. That’s why continued education, better safeguards, and innovative tools are more critical than ever.