Nationwide Sounds Alarm Over Escalating Gambling Expenditure
Nationwide Building Society has issued a stark warning to its customers following the release of new data revealing a significant surge in gambling-related transactions. The financial institution recorded a 9% rise in the overall value of spending on gambling activities during January 2026 compared to the same period the previous year. Concurrently, the number of gambling transactions processed by Britain's largest building society increased by 7% over the same timeframe.
Average Monthly Gambling Spending Reaches Concerning Levels
According to Nationwide's internal analysis, the top 10% of spenders on gambling platforms are disbursing an average of £745 per month. While the society acknowledges that most individuals manage their gambling expenditures responsibly, it is proactively encouraging customers to remain vigilant for signs of problematic gambling behaviour. This concern is particularly pertinent given the packed calendar of major sporting events scheduled throughout the year.
Survey Reveals Alarming Trends and Knowledge Gaps
A comprehensive survey commissioned by Nationwide and conducted by Censuswide in February 2026, which polled 2,000 individuals who gamble, uncovered several troubling insights. Approximately two-thirds (68%) of respondents anticipate increasing their betting activities in 2026, attributing this expectation to the busy sporting schedule. More concerningly, the survey indicated that around one-fifth (19%) of gamblers are unaware that banks and building societies, including Nationwide, offer the option to apply gambling blocks on their accounts.
Kathryn Townsend, Nationwide's Head of Customer Vulnerability, emphasized the urgency of the situation: "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." She further detailed the society's protective measures: "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 judgment, whenever they need it."
Charity Highlights the Hidden Dangers of Gambling Harm
Raminta Diliso, Senior Partnerships Manager for the charity GamCare, echoed these concerns, stating: "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."
Key Warning Signs of Gambling Harm Identified
Nationwide has outlined several behavioural and financial indicators that may signal gambling-related harm:
- Individuals appearing withdrawn and compulsively checking their phones due to high-stakes bets.
- Noticeable shifts in mood and behaviour, such as unexplained worry, agitation, or distress.
- Sleep disturbances linked to chasing losses or financial anxiety.
- Unexplained disappearances of money from bank accounts or increased pressure to borrow funds.
- Deception regarding time allocation or requests for money to cover basic expenses.
The building society is urging all customers to critically assess their gambling habits, utilize available blocking tools, and seek support if needed, especially in light of the anticipated increase in betting activities driven by the year's sporting events.
