GamStop reports surge in self-exclusion among younger bettors

Gamstop has reported a sharp increase in self-exclusion among younger bettors. New figures released by the national self-exclusion register show another rise in registrations from players aged 16–24 during the second half of 2025. The data suggests that younger consumers are engaging with harm-prevention tools earlier, and in greater numbers, than in previous years.

Younger players account for a growing share of registrations

Between July and December 2025, Gamstop recorded 58,675 new registrations. This is equivalent to an average of 319 sign-ups per day. Of these, 29% came from players aged 16–24, which is a 40% increase in registrations from that age group.

Gamstop doesn’t track the specific reasons behind individual sign-ups. The scale of the increase, though, means there are probably lots of factors at play:

• Greater visibility of self-exclusion tools at online casinos.
• Stronger safer gambling messaging.
• Tighter controls around affordability.

By the end of the year, 562,000 players were registered with the service. It’s a figure that continues to climb steadily, showing that Gamstop is a central part of the UK’s safer gambling infrastructure.

Shorter exclusions favoured by younger users

There are differences, though. Players aged 16-24 most often choose a six-month exclusion. It appears to function as a pause rather than a permanent exit. They’re using it as a way to step back during periods of financial pressure, perhaps.

Across the wider user base, however, behaviour skews towards longer commitments. Almost half of all users choose to exclude themselves for five years.

Long-term protection continues to gain ground

It has now been one year since Gamstop introduced its five-year exclusion with auto-renewal. This was something designed to provide ongoing protection. It’s only not renewed unless a user actively opts out.

Since its launch, uptake of the auto-renewal option has increased steadily. Now, more than half of users choosing a five-year exclusion also selected auto-renewal. It means that almost a quarter of users are choosing a more permanent state for their online gambling activities.

“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.” – Fiona Palmer, CEO at GamStop

Gamstop has also moved to simplify and expand its land-based exclusion offering. The organisation has now formally integrated the Multi Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme for Betting Shops (MOSES) into its wider operation.

Rebranded as Gamstop Betting Shops and GamStop Online, the two schemes aim to create a clearer link between both activities.

Changes in gambling behaviour

The figures point to how gambling harm is being recognised and addressed, particularly among younger players. Self-exclusion has traditionally been associated with crisis points. Yet, the growing uptake among under-25s suggests it is increasingly being used as a preventative tool.