Gamstop Reports Significant Data On Under-24s Gambling Self-Exclusion

There has been a significant uptake of Under-24s signing up for the self-exclusion scheme GamStop, according to official data supplied by the company. The stats indicated that more young people are identifying problems with their gambling habits and wish to take proactive action.

In its survey, GamStop focused on those in the 16-24 age group. Within this, the study looked solely at online gambling.

A close-up of the figures

In the survey, which covered the six months up until December 31 2025, it revealed there was a 40% uptick in young people self-excluding from digital betting. The age range, according to the study, accounted for 29% of all total new registrations.

Further details indicated that 38% of Under-25s preferred to self-exclude for a duration of six months. Interestingly, the majority of total registrations, the most preferred option (47%) is a five-year self-exclusion.

For those who chose the five-year option, GamStop issued an additional auto-renewal option at the end of 2024, and the scheme appears to be taking shape. Indeed, at the end of last year, this option was selected by more than 50% of registrants, marking a significant milestone.

New schemes in place

Apart from the new auto-renewal option, GamStop has also recently rolled out a Multi Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme for Betting Shops (MOSES), which rebrands betting shops approved by GamStop and enables easier facilitation of self-exclusion online. MOSES, for example, currently offers a maximum self-exclusion period of 18 months, stretching to 6,000 retail venues and more than 60,000 operators.

All established UK betting sites, it is worth noting, are signed up to GamStop. As part of its commitment to meet United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulations, this is compulsory, and it helps players identify sites that are safer or more trustworthy.

Recognising the issue at hand

While the tangible data shows perhaps a worrying trend, GamStop has offered a helping hand. Discussing the results, Fiona Palmer, CEO of GamStop, addressed the significance of them.

She said:

“Our brand refresh reflects the evolution of GamStop and will deliver clarity, consistency and accessibility while preserving the trust and integrity built over the last eight years since we launched.

“The continued year-on-year growth in registrations highlight the ongoing and increasing need for effective self-exclusion tools. The rise in take-up of our auto-renewal option, in particular, shows that many consumers are seeking longer-term support and recognise the value of self-exclusion in helping them manage their gambling.”

Other things at play

While GamStop serves a purpose, there are other factors at play. Currently, the UKGC is going through a raft of reforms to clean up an industry that is thought to be worth £12.5 billion, and this includes stricter rules surrounding gambling advertising. This has centred around advertising across the TfL (Transport for London) network, although there hasn’t been much progress made on that front.

Apart from that, the UKGC has also been weighing three options to increase the licence fees for operators. There are a few options at the table, and online betting sites prohibit Under-18s from signing up.

As far as GamStop is concerned, the figures that have come out regarding Under-24s signing up for the self-exclusion service are slightly alarming. However, if more young people are taking a grip and addressing the matter, then it can continue to help others who may be at risk of or susceptible to problem gambling.