Key Moments:
- Anna Hargrave has been named CEO of GambleAware, effective October 2025, to manage the charity’s transition and closure.
- GambleAware is set to close by March 2026 as a new statutory levy targets raising £100 million annually through licensed operator contributions.
- Responsibilities for research, education, and treatment will move from GambleAware to statutory bodies across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Leadership Shift at GambleAware
GambleAware has confirmed Anna Hargrave as its incoming CEO, following Zoë Osmond OBE’s seven-year tenure, with four years as chief executive. Hargrave, who currently serves as Chief Commissioning and Strategy Officer and Deputy CEO, will step up to the role in October 2025. Her background spans over 13 years with the NHS in senior leadership roles, including a stint at NHS England. She holds an MBA from the University of Warwick and is recognized for her expertise in organizational development, change management, and stakeholder engagement. Hargrave’s mission will center on navigating GambleAware through its closure period.
Closure Plans and Sector Transition
GambleAware will formally wind down by March 2026 as its core operations—including research, education, and treatment of gambling-related harm—transition to statutory commissioners throughout the United Kingdom. This structural change coincides with the forthcoming statutory levy, replacing industry-led voluntary contributions. Under the new system, licensed gambling operators will contribute between 0.1 and 1.1 percent of their gross gambling yield, collectively raising approximately £100 million each year. The first levy payments are scheduled for 1 October 2025.
| Key Timeline Events | Details |
|---|---|
| 30 September 2025 | Zoë Osmond OBE steps down as CEO |
| October 2025 | Anna Hargrave assumes CEO position |
| 1 October 2025 | First statutory levy payments due |
| March 2026 | Scheduled closure of GambleAware |
| After April 2026 | Oversight shifts to NHS England, OHID, UK Research and Innovation, and devolved governments in Scotland and Wales |
The Transition CEO’s Priorities
As she prepares to lead the transition, Hargrave will focus on maintaining service quality and stability as responsibilities are handed over to statutory bodies. “The final six months are critical for the smooth transfer and transition to the new system,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of building on existing achievements and ensuring that vital service user protections are carried forward throughout the process.
A Legacy of Public Health Advocacy
Under Zoë Osmond’s leadership, GambleAware became a visible voice for addressing gambling harm as a public health problem. The organization’s campaigns reached many individuals, and its helpline received around 42,000 calls annually. GambleAware also advocated for health warnings on National Lottery tickets and advertising, launching tested messages such as “Gambling comes at a cost” and “Gambling can be addictive.” Initiatives like Bet Regret further cemented the charity’s reputation in spotlighting risky gambling behaviors.
Reflecting on her impact, Osmond said: “Few charities can truly say they have delivered on their founding mission, but GambleAware and the exceptional team have played a pivotal role in reframing gambling harm as a public health issue.”
In recognition of her contributions, Osmond received an OBE in 2025.
Industry Voices Respond to the Transition
Hargrave’s selection to lead GambleAware’s closure has drawn both approval and criticism. Baroness Twycross, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health and Social Care, backed the appointment as a step toward continuity. Andy Boucher, Chair of Trustees, emphasized that Hargrave’s NHS background positions her well to manage the transition.
However, Jordan Lea, CEO of Deal Me Out, labeled the process “a stain on the implementation of the statutory levy,” expressing concerns about job losses and instability resulting from what he described as “mismanaged government policy.” Lea pointed to sector redundancies and warned that mishandling the transition could impact essential frontline services.
Future Oversight and Ongoing Impact
While GambleAware’s resources and website will remain active until the official closure, oversight of its functions will transfer to NHS England, OHID, UK Research and Innovation, and devolved governments in Scotland and Wales after April 2026. Throughout this period, sector stakeholders will scrutinize Hargrave’s stewardship as she endeavors to ensure a seamless funding transition and protect the organization’s public health achievements.
- Author
Daniel Williams
