Nationwide has issued a fresh warning of rising gambling-related harm after new data released by the lender showed a 9% rise in gambling spend compared to last year.
That number is expected to rise even further in 2026 as a jam-packed sporting calendar gets underway, with this summer playing host to the World Cup as well as other popular betting events such as the Masters, the French Open and the Champions League.
Data showed that transaction volumes had risen by 7% compared to the previous year, and more notably, that one in 10 bettors spent an average of £745 per month.
Kathryn Townsend, Head of Customer Vulnerability for Nationwide, said: “With a year of major sporting events ahead, we’re concerned that more people could find themselves gambling more than they can afford. That’s why early identification and strong safeguards matter.
“At Nationwide, we know gambling can be a very emotionally charged activity, which is why we’ve deliberately built in a 72-hour cooling-off period for our gambling block – which offers an additional layer of protection and helps people to stay in control. No one should feel they have to face gambling harm alone – help is available, without judgement, whenever they need it.”
The warning comes after Gamcare, which operates the National Gambling Helpline, received 105,765 contacts from people seeking support in 2025 and made 996 referrals to treatment and peer-based support services in January 2026 – a 48% jump compared to last year, understandably raising concerns.
Nationwide notes increased gambling activity
Nationwide’s study found that of the 2,000 gamblers surveyed, 68% expect to bet more this year due to the busy sporting calendar – the majority of which cited the FIFA Men’s World Cup (59%) as a driver of this increased spend, followed by the Champions League (34%), the Champions League Final (30%) and Royal Ascot (20%).
However, among the reasons pinpointed as to why people bet, it was entertainment and enjoyment that topped the list with 53% of respondents. Excitement and ‘thrill to win’ was cited as a reason for 46% of people, while boredom was the reason for 18%.
Most worrying was the 17% of those who highlighted that gambling was a way to ‘get more money to pay essential bills’.
One in 10 bettors felt inclined to place another bet when they didn’t win a previous wager, and 8% do not always feel in control when gambling. Meanwhile 6% pointed out that they had caused tension or conflict in their personal lives, and another 6% stated that gambling had negatively impacted their standard of living.
The research revealed that 19% of bettors were unaware that banking institutions offered gambling blocks on accounts. But of those that were aware, half had used a block and 56% had said that it had prevented them from gambling further.
Raminta Diliso, Senior Partnerships Manager for GamCare, added: “Gambling harm is often a very hidden issue but the problems it can cause people can be significant. Financial difficulties, mental health struggles and relationship challenges are all common impacts facing those who are struggling with gambling.”
“In a year where big sporting events such as the World Cup may be a trigger for those impacted, we want people to know there are things people can do to reduce the impact gambling is having on them. Activating gambling blocks, such as the one offered by Nationwide, and contacting GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline for free are great steps if you are struggling.”
