GAMSTOP Evaluation Reveals High Satisfaction and Positive Impact on Users
A recent independent evaluation of GAMSTOP, conducted by Ipsos, has shown that users of the online self-exclusion service feel safer and more in control of their gambling behaviors. The research, which surveyed more than 4,650 users, found that 78% of respondents reported that GAMSTOP had delivered the results they were hoping for, while 80% would recommend the service to others.
High Satisfaction Among Users
The evaluation revealed strong satisfaction levels, with 73% of users expressing overall satisfaction with GAMSTOP.
This figure rose to 85% among individuals who no longer gamble, with three out of four respondents indicating that they felt more in control of their gambling since registering for the service.
One participant with a five-year exclusion, who no longer gambles, praised the service, stating: “GAMSTOP literally did what it said on the tin, it stopped me from being able to register with gambling websites, which was the major issue.”
Long-Term Impact of Self-Exclusion
Since its launch in 2018, GAMSTOP has registered over 500,000 users seeking help in controlling their gambling habits.
The study found that 55% of participants registered with the aim of stopping online gambling altogether, regaining control over their lives, or reducing the financial burden caused by gambling.
Nearly half (48%) of those surveyed have completely stopped gambling, and three out of four no longer gamble online.
The evaluation highlighted the effectiveness of longer self-exclusion periods. Users who opted for the maximum exclusion period of five years were more likely to have stopped gambling entirely, reflecting the long-term benefits of the service.
Financial and Emotional Benefits
Users also reported significant improvements in their financial and mental well-being. GAMSTOP has helped individuals reduce short-term financial harms and provided a sense of financial freedom.
More than 70% of respondents said they felt safer from the negative effects of gambling, and many reported improvements in their overall mental and physical health, as they had more time and disposable income to invest in their well-being.
The service has helped ease the stress and isolation often associated with problem gambling, giving users the time and space to focus on their health and professional lives.
The majority of respondents (76%) are currently employed, with a large proportion earning between £55,000 and £99,000 annually.
Recommendations for Improvement
The evaluation made several key recommendations for GAMSTOP to consider, including offering longer or lifetime exclusion periods, increasing communication with users after their exclusion periods have ended, and enhancing advertising efforts to reach younger audiences through social media.
Another area of concern raised by users was the presence of unlicensed gambling operators.
Some respondents reported being targeted by illegal websites claiming to be “not on GAMSTOP.”
The report calls on the government, the Gambling Commission, and other stakeholders to address black-market gambling and regulate its promotion on social media.
The report concluded that GAMSTOP remains an effective tool for reducing gambling-related harm, particularly for individuals seeking to change their lifestyle and cut back on or stop gambling.
The majority of users expressed satisfaction with the service and reported that it met their expectations.
GAMSTOP CEO Fiona Palmer commented on the findings, saying, “It is gratifying to know that most of our users feel GAMSTOP has helped them significantly reduce gambling-related harm. We are aware of the responsibility this brings, and we will study the recommendations in detail, including the suggestion of extending self-exclusion periods.”
