- Maximum £2 stake for 18 to 24-year-olds UK Online Slots Stake Limits Coming into Force in September 2024
According to Evidence from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, the 18-24 age group has the highest average problem gambling score of any group. It also has the lowest disposable income. Meanwhile, statistics from NHS surveys reveal that problem gambling related to online activities such as slots, casino games, or bingo stands at 8.7%. This figure represents one of the highest rates observed across gambling segment.
Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew said:
UK Online Slots Stake Limits Coming into Force in September 2024“Although millions of people gamble safely every single day, the evidence shows that there is a significantly higher problem gambling rate for online slot games.
UK Online Slots Stake Limits Coming into Force in September 2024The growing popularity of online gambling is clear to see, so this announcement will level the playing field with the land-based sector and is the next step in a host of measures being introduced this year that will protect people from gambling harms.”
“We welcome the Government’s announcement to introduce lower online stake limits for under 25s as an important mechanism to protect young people. Our research shows a concerning trend with this age group experiencing an increase in harm arising from gambling and online slots are very high-risk products.
As we continue our work to tackle this growing public health issue, we will collaborate with the Government and others across the gambling harms sector to ensure there are no missed opportunities when it comes to the introduction of robust preventative measures, including new regulations such as these.”
The implementation of the limits is scheduled for September of this year, pending secondary legislation. Operators will have a six-week transition period to adhere to the general £5 stake limit regulations. There will be an additional six weeks allocated for the development and implementation of any required technical solutions to ensure full compliance with the reduced £2 stake limit specifically aimed at young adults aged 18-24.
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.