Gamstop, the national self-exclusion register, observed a significant 40% surge in registrations from individuals aged 16-24 during the latter half of 2025. This spike reflects broader trends in the gambling sector as younger consumers show increasing interest in self-regulating their gaming activities. From July to December 2025, Gamstop recorded a total of 58,675 new registrations, with an average of 319 individuals initiating the self-exclusion process daily. Notably, young players aged 16-24 comprised 29% of these new sign-ups, emphasizing a noteworthy demographic shift in self-exclusion patterns.
By the end of 2025, the total number of registered users with Gamstop reached 562,000. Participants in the self-exclusion program have the option to choose exclusion periods of six months, one year, or five years. Among younger registrants, the six-month exclusion was the most favored, with 38% opting for this duration. Conversely, across all age groups, the five-year exclusion remained the most popular, selected by 47% of users.
In December 2025, Gamstop reached the first anniversary of its ‘five years with auto-renewal’ exclusion option. This feature effectively creates a perpetual self-exclusion unless the user actively opts out of auto-renewal. Adoption of this option has grown steadily, with over half of those selecting a minimum five-year exclusion choosing the auto-renewal feature, marking a significant milestone since its introduction.
Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop Group, remarked on the trend, stating, “The continuous growth in registrations underscores the persistent demand for effective self-exclusion tools. The increased adoption of our auto-renewal option indicates that many users are seeking sustained support and recognize the importance of self-exclusion in managing their gambling behaviors.”
In related developments, Gamstop has completed the rebranding of the Multi Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme for Betting Shops (MOSES) as Gamstop Betting Shops. This integration aims to streamline the connection between land-based and online self-exclusion services. The transition enables easier access by allowing registrations for betting shop self-exclusion to be completed online, a change from the previous telephone-only system. Currently, around 9,000 individuals are registered with the land-based scheme.
Commenting on this restructuring, Palmer noted, “Our brand refresh signifies the evolution of Gamstop and aims to provide clarity, consistency, and accessibility while maintaining the trust and integrity we’ve established over the past eight years.”
The increase in self-exclusion registrations, particularly among young gamblers, highlights the growing awareness and proactive management of gambling habits within this demographic. This development may prompt industry regulators to evaluate the effectiveness of existing responsible gambling measures, potentially leading to new guidelines or policies aimed at reducing gambling-related harms.
Looking forward, industry stakeholders will closely monitor the impact of Gamstop’s expanded offerings and the integration of the MOSES scheme. The sustained growth in self-exclusion registrations may influence future regulatory reviews and adjustments, as the market responds to evolving consumer needs and demands for responsible gambling tools. The effectiveness and reach of Gamstop’s rebranded services will likely become focal points in ongoing discussions about enhancing responsible gambling practices across the UK.