The United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) body is actively pursuing a new head for its Gambling Research Programme. This move, taking place in the UK, is part of an effort to establish the programme, a key initiative funded by the gambling statutory levy. The role was announced on March 19, 2026, and is crucial for addressing gambling harms through research-driven solutions. This development is significant as it reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing regulatory oversight and improving research infrastructure within the gambling sector.
The chosen candidate will spearhead the UKRI’s efforts in developing a credible and trusted Gambling Research Programme, which aims to collaborate extensively with both the government and the academic community. Applicants for this position have until April 13 to apply, with the role commencing early in 2026. The position, a fixed-term appointment lasting 24 months, is housed within the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) of UKRI, and the appointee will report to the AHRC’s associate director of the Research Programme on Gambling.
A fundamental aspect of this initiative is the allocation of resources from the statutory levy, which was introduced by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and took effect on April 6 of the previous year. This levy is designed to support a wide range of initiatives, including research, prevention of gambling-related harm, and support services. Specifically, 20% of the levy is directed toward the Gambling Research Programme. The remaining funds are divided, with 30% allocated to harm prevention efforts and 50% dedicated to treatment and support services for affected individuals.
Since its implementation, the levy has generated £120 million ($159.5 million), underscoring its potential impact on the gambling sector. All operators licensed in the UK are subject to this levy, with varying rates depending on the type of licence they hold. For example, online operators and software licensees contribute 1.1% of their gross gambling yield (GGY), while family entertainment centres, pool betting licensees, and machine technical licensees are subject to a 0.1% charge. The Gambling Commission has emphasized the importance of timely payments, warning operators that non-compliance could lead to licence revocations.
Victoria Reed, founder of Better Change, has highlighted the necessity for a robust governance framework to ensure the levy’s funds are appropriately utilized. There is ongoing debate within the industry regarding the distribution of these funds, particularly concerning research and the mitigation of gambling harms. The allocation of funds is now under government oversight as part of the recently published gambling white paper, which led to the establishment of the statutory levy.
This transition from a voluntary funding system, previously managed by GambleAware, marks a significant shift. GambleAware is set to cease operations by the end of this month, amidst concerns from researchers about the past influence of the industry on research agendas. Such apprehensions underscore the importance of an unbiased funding approach to foster independent research and reduce gambling-related issues.
As the UKRI prepares to launch its Gambling Research Programme, the focus will be on consolidating its position within the government and research sectors. This initiative represents a broader regulatory framework aimed at tackling gambling harms through evidence-based research and strategic funding.
Looking forward, the next steps involve finalizing the appointment of the programme head and commencing operations. The effective implementation of the statutory levy and its governance will be crucial in shaping the future landscape of gambling research and policy in the UK. The industry and stakeholders will be closely watching the outcomes of this initiative and its impact on both regulation and consumer protection.
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