Barclays highlights gambling support ahead of a summer of sport

With the FIFA World Cup kicking off on 11 June, Barclays is encouraging customers to feel more in control of their spending as excitement around a summer of sport grows.

For many, a flutter adds to the fun. But for some it can go further than planned, sometimes dangerously so. With that in mind, Barclays is encouraging customers to make use of its simple in‑app tools to manage their spending this summer.

Barclays data shows gambling activity increases around major sporting events. During this year’s Grand National, transactions rose 53% above the average daily level, while major fixtures like Premier League run‑ins and the FA Cup final typically see a gambling uplift of around 30% per event.

To support customers, Barclays’ Gambling Block can be switched on in the app to stop most payments to gambling merchants. The block includes a 72‑hour “cooling‑off” period before it can be removed, giving people space to reconsider during moments of heightened temptation. 

Barclays has recently introduced personalised in‑app insights for customers, highlighting gambling spend activity and signposting to support. Since launching, the number of Gambling Blocks in place has increased by over 10%, as customers react positively to this simple and practical intervention.   

Support also extends beyond the app. Through Barclays’ partnership with GamCare, customers can access independent, specialist help. Over the past year (from April 2025-2026*), 621 GamCare website sessions were attributed to Barclays customers.

Manuel Baldasano, Head of Customer & Digital at Barclays UK, said: “Placing a bet on a big sporting event can often add to the excitement, and for most, it can just be a bit of fun. But for others, events like the World Cup can make it harder to stay in control of their gambling. By combining simple in‑app tools with direct pathways to specialist support, we’re helping customers make considered choices and access help when they need it.”

Barclays continues to invest in product features, customer education, and partnerships to help customers feel financially confident all year round.

ENDS  

*This data is taken from the GamCare website. It only records data from people who have accepted Cookies, so does not give a full reflection of the level of engagement. 

Anyone struggling with gambling, whether their own or someone else’s, can contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, 24/7, 365 days a year for free, non-judgemental support.