Gambless support app forced to shutter over alleged lack of external support
CEO Maurizio Savino says gambling-related harm solutions provider came to “difficult decision” after helping 20,000 people since 2020 launch
The Gambless gambling addiction app will be phased out after launching in 2020 due to a claimed lack of external support from the industry.
The app targeted prevention and treatment for those experiencing gambling-related harm, with most of the content available for free.
Available on both iOS and Android, it also offered resources such as informative articles, coping-skills exercises and an emergency chatbot.
However, after assisting 20,000 individuals in the past four years, the decision has been made to stop updating the app with new developments.
Bosses confirmed that the product will still be available in app stores, but a lack of further investment would see it gradually phased out over time.
Explaining the decision, Gambless CEO Maurizio Savino bemoaned the lack of backing from those inside the industry.
Gambless does not appear on the most recent list of businesses receiving funding as part of the voluntary research, education and treatment levy in the UK.
Savino said: “Developing, maintaining and updating a mobile app involves significant costs. As a self-funded project, it has become impractical to continue without external support from industry partners or regulatory bodies.
“When we started Gambless, we somewhat overestimated the interest of the industry in supporting a tool designed to help those dealing with gambling addiction.
“Unfortunately, we did not receive any backing from regulators, organisations, charities or gambling operators, which has led us to this difficult decision.”
With the app closing, Gambless said users will be informed in the coming days about the closure and will be given information about the next steps, including high-quality support and resources for those in need.