What Is BeGambleAware?
BeGambleAware is the trading name of GambleAware, an independent UK charity dedicated to reducing gambling-related harms across Great Britain. Registered with the UK Charity Commission under charity number 1093910, BeGambleAware operates as a grant-making charity that commissions, funds, and delivers public health education, prevention programmes, treatment services, and research to help individuals and families affected by problem gambling.
The organisation provides free, confidential advice, self-assessment tools, and support services to anyone concerned about their own gambling or that of a loved one. Unlike commercial gambling operators, BeGambleAware is a non-profit entity with no financial interest in gambling activity—its sole purpose is to safeguard people from gambling harms and promote responsible gambling practices across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Where Did BeGambleAware Come From?
BeGambleAware's history dates back to the early 2000s, reflecting the UK's growing recognition of problem gambling as a public health concern. The charity was originally established under the name Responsible Gambling Trust in 2002, following the Gambling Review Report, which identified the need for an independent body to address gambling-related harms in the UK.
The organisation underwent significant structural evolution over the following decades. In 2013, it received substantial funding from the Responsible Gambling Fund, which strengthened its capacity to commission research and treatment services. The charity's current trading name, BeGambleAware, reflects its mission to raise public awareness about gambling harms while providing practical support and resources.
Throughout its history, BeGambleAware has adapted to changing regulatory landscapes and emerging evidence about gambling harms. The charity has consistently positioned itself as independent from the gambling industry, though it receives funding through a mandatory levy on licensed gambling operators—a model designed to ensure that those profiting from gambling contribute to harm reduction efforts. This funding structure, established under UK gambling law, allows BeGambleAware to operate without commercial conflicts of interest.
How Does BeGambleAware Differ From GamCare and Other Services?
Understanding the distinction between BeGambleAware and other gambling support organisations is crucial for anyone seeking help. While all these services share the goal of reducing gambling harm, they operate differently and serve complementary roles within the UK's gambling support ecosystem.
BeGambleAware vs. GamCare
GamCare is a separate charity that operates the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133), providing direct counselling and support to individuals and families affected by problem gambling. GamCare focuses primarily on crisis intervention and therapeutic support through its helpline and face-to-face services.
BeGambleAware, by contrast, functions as a strategic commissioner and funder of gambling harm services. Rather than providing direct counselling, BeGambleAware commissions treatment providers, funds research projects, and develops public education campaigns. It operates the self-assessment tools and service finder that connect people to appropriate support—including GamCare's services.
Comparison with Other Services
| Service | Type | Primary Function | Access Method | Direct Counselling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeGambleAware | Charity (Commissioner) | Funds services, research, education | Online tools, service finder | No (referral-based) |
| GamCare | Charity (Provider) | Direct counselling and support | Helpline, face-to-face, online | Yes |
| Gambling Therapy | Charity (Provider) | Global online support and advice | Website, chat, email | Yes |
| Gamblers Anonymous | Support Group | Peer-led recovery (12-step model) | Local meetings | Yes (peer support) |
| NHS Gambling Services | Public Health | Clinical treatment and assessment | GP referral, self-referral | Yes (clinical) |
The key distinction is that BeGambleAware is a strategic funder and commissioner, whilst GamCare and Gambling Therapy are direct service providers. This means BeGambleAware identifies gaps in gambling support, commissions organisations to fill those gaps, and evaluates the effectiveness of services—rather than delivering counselling itself.
What Tools and Resources Does BeGambleAware Offer?
BeGambleAware provides several free, evidence-based tools designed to help individuals assess their relationship with gambling and access appropriate support. These tools are central to the charity's public health approach.
Self-Assessment Tools
The Gambling Harms Assessment is BeGambleAware's flagship tool. Users answer seven quick questions about their gambling behaviour, and the tool provides personalised feedback on whether gambling may be causing harm. The assessment is anonymous, confidential, and generates tailored advice based on responses. This tool has been used by over 100,000 people seeking to understand their gambling patterns.
The assessment covers key indicators of problem gambling, including:
- Betting more than one can afford to lose
- Needing larger amounts to achieve the same feeling
- Attempting to win back lost money (chasing losses)
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Experiencing stress, anxiety, or guilt related to gambling
- Impact on relationships and finances
Gambling Spend Calculator
This tool helps users track the time and money spent on gambling activities over a defined period. By inputting betting patterns, the calculator provides a clear picture of actual expenditure and offers recommendations for reducing risk. Many users find this tool eye-opening, as it makes abstract spending concrete and measurable.
Friends and Family Check-In
Recognising that gambling harms extend beyond the person gambling, BeGambleAware offers a separate assessment for family members and friends affected by someone else's gambling. This tool helps loved ones understand the impact on their own wellbeing and provides advice on how to support the person whilst protecting themselves.
Service Finder
The Service Finder is a postcode-based search tool that connects users with free, confidential gambling support services in their local area. Users enter their postcode and receive a list of nearby treatment providers, counselling services, and support groups. This removes barriers to accessing help by providing location-specific resources.
| Tool | Purpose | Target User | Time Required | Output |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gambling Harms Assessment | Identify problem gambling | Self-concerned individuals | 5–7 minutes | Personalised feedback & advice |
| Spend Calculator | Track gambling expenditure | Budget-conscious users | 5–10 minutes | Spending analysis & recommendations |
| Friends & Family Check-In | Assess impact on loved ones | Family members, partners | 5–10 minutes | Tailored support advice |
| Service Finder | Locate local support | Anyone seeking help | 2–3 minutes | List of nearby services with contact details |
How Can You Access BeGambleAware Support?
Accessing BeGambleAware services is straightforward and free. The organisation operates multiple channels to ensure people can find help in the way that suits them best.
Online Access
The primary gateway is www.begambleaware.org, where all self-assessment tools, the service finder, and educational resources are freely available. The website is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, with clear navigation and minimal barriers to entry. Users can access tools 24/7 without registration or payment.
Telephone Support
Whilst BeGambleAware itself does not operate a direct helpline, it provides information about the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133), which is run by GamCare. This free, confidential service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is staffed by trained advisers who can provide immediate support and referrals to treatment services.
Referral to Treatment Services
Based on assessment results, BeGambleAware's tools direct users to appropriate treatment providers. These may include NHS gambling treatment clinics, charitable counselling services, or support groups. The service finder ensures that referrals are localised and relevant.
Educational Resources
BeGambleAware publishes extensive advice on its website covering topics such as:
- Recognising signs of gambling harms
- Managing finances when affected by problem gambling
- Supporting someone else's recovery
- Understanding the risks of gambling
- Strategies for reducing or quitting gambling
What Research and Evidence Does BeGambleAware Produce?
A core function of BeGambleAware is commissioning and publishing research to deepen understanding of gambling harms and inform evidence-based interventions. The charity funds academic research, conducts surveys, and evaluates the effectiveness of prevention and treatment programmes.
Key Research Areas
Gambling Harms Research: BeGambleAware has commissioned multiple projects to understand how gambling harms develop, persist, and escalate over time. This research examines the mechanisms through which gambling affects mental health, relationships, finances, and physical wellbeing.
Inequalities in Gambling Harms: Recent research programmes have focused on identifying which populations experience disproportionate gambling harms—such as young people, ethnic minorities, and those with existing mental health conditions. This evidence base informs targeted prevention strategies.
Self-Help and Tool Effectiveness: BeGambleAware evaluates the impact of its own tools and self-directed strategies. Research has examined whether self-assessment tools, spending calculators, and blocking software effectively reduce gambling harm.
Treatment Outcomes: The charity funds research into the effectiveness of various treatment approaches, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, counselling, and peer support, to identify best practices in gambling treatment.
Evidence Integration
Findings from BeGambleAware-commissioned research are integrated into public health campaigns, treatment service development, and policy recommendations to the Gambling Commission and UK government. This ensures that BeGambleAware's services and advocacy are grounded in robust evidence rather than assumption.
What Happens to BeGambleAware in 2026?
The UK gambling landscape is undergoing significant regulatory change, which has implications for BeGambleAware's structure and operations. The Gambling Act 2005 has been subject to review, and the government has introduced new legislation aimed at strengthening gambling regulation and consumer protection.
Regulatory Changes
Under new gambling legislation, the funding model for gambling harm prevention services is being reformed. Rather than relying solely on a levy paid by gambling operators, a new system of levy commissioners has been established to oversee the collection and allocation of funds for gambling harm services. This change aims to ensure greater independence and accountability in how gambling harm prevention is funded.
Future Operations
As of 2025, BeGambleAware continues to operate as an independent charity, but its role within the broader gambling support ecosystem is evolving. The organisation is transitioning to work more closely with the Gambling Commission and NHS to ensure that gambling harm services are integrated into the public health system.
The charity has indicated its commitment to expanding treatment services, increasing research into emerging harms (such as online gambling and betting on esports), and reaching underserved populations. Regardless of structural changes, BeGambleAware's core mission—to reduce gambling-related harms—remains unchanged.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BeGambleAware and GambleAware?
BeGambleAware is the trading name of the charity formally registered as GambleAware. The terms are used interchangeably. The charity operates under both names, with "BeGambleAware" used in public-facing tools and campaigns, and "GambleAware" used in official registration and reports.
Is BeGambleAware a registered charity?
Yes, BeGambleAware (GambleAware) is a registered charity in the UK under charity number 1093910. It is an independent, not-for-profit organisation governed by a board of trustees and subject to oversight by the UK Charity Commission.
How is BeGambleAware funded?
BeGambleAware is primarily funded through a mandatory levy on licensed gambling operators in the UK. This levy is a percentage of gambling revenue, collected to fund gambling harm prevention, education, and treatment services. The funding model ensures that the gambling industry contributes to addressing the harms its products may cause.
Does BeGambleAware provide direct counselling?
No, BeGambleAware does not provide direct counselling services. Instead, it commissions and funds other organisations to deliver treatment and support. However, it provides self-assessment tools, education, and referrals to counselling providers such as GamCare, Gambling Therapy, and NHS gambling clinics.
How many people does BeGambleAware help each year?
BeGambleAware's self-assessment tools are used by tens of thousands of people annually. Its service finder connects individuals to treatment providers, and its commissioned services reach hundreds of thousands through helplines, counselling, and support groups. Exact figures are published in the charity's annual reports.
What should I do if I think I have a gambling problem?
Start by using BeGambleAware's Gambling Harms Assessment on www.begambleaware.org. Based on your responses, you will receive personalised advice and referrals to local support services. You can also call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 for immediate support.
Is BeGambleAware the same as Gamblers Anonymous?
No. BeGambleAware is a charity that funds and commissions services. Gamblers Anonymous is a peer-led support group that uses the 12-step recovery model. Both organisations work towards gambling harm reduction but operate independently and offer different types of support.
How can I access BeGambleAware services if I live in Scotland or Wales?
BeGambleAware operates across England, Scotland, and Wales. All online tools and the service finder are available to users in all three nations. The service finder will direct you to support providers in your specific region, as funding and service availability may vary by nation.