The introduction of the Statutory Gambling Levy in October 2025 resulted in NHS England becoming responsible responsible for commissioning the gambling harms treatment pathway, from referral and triage through to aftercare, as of 1st April 2026. The National Gambling Helpline, delivered by GamCare, a VCSE organisation, is an established, live service providing multi-channel access (including telephone, email, WhatsApp and online) and plays an integral role in the treatment system as a primary referral route into treatment and support services. GamCare owns the established national helpline number, which is extensively embedded across marketing and referral routes used by gambling operators, financial institutions, local authorities and VCSE providers. Maintaining continuity of this access route is critical, as changes would require extensive engagement and lead time, with potential disruption to patient access and referral flows. The requirement is limited to continuation of the existing service to ensure system stability during transition to future commissioning arrangements.

Procurement Act 2023

Direct award