Before you gamble
Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Before you gamble, set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it. Never gamble with money you need for essential expenses. Gambling while under the influence of alcohol or when feeling stressed, depressed or upset can lead to poor decisions.
Signs that gambling may be becoming a problem
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable or depressed when not gambling
- Lying to family or friends about gambling activity
- Neglecting work, family or social obligations due to gambling
- Chasing losses — continuing to gamble in an attempt to win back money lost
- Gambling interfering with sleep or daily functioning
Tools available to you
All UKGC-licensed operators are required to offer:
- Deposit limits — daily, weekly and monthly
- Session time limits and reality checks
- Cool-off periods (24 hours to 6 weeks)
- Self-exclusion (site-specific, minimum 6 months)
- GAMSTOP national self-exclusion (see below)
GAMSTOP — National Self-Exclusion
GAMSTOP (gamstop.co.uk) is the UK's national multi-operator self-exclusion scheme. Registering with GAMSTOP means you are automatically excluded from all UK Gambling Commission-licensed online gambling operators for a period of your choosing (minimum 6 months, up to 5 years or indefinitely). Registration is free and immediate. Once registered, your details are shared with all participating UKGC-licensed operators.
Support organisations
BeGambleAware
Website: begambleaware.org | National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24 hours, 7 days). BeGambleAware is the UK's leading charity providing advice, support and treatment for problem gambling. Their helpline is staffed by trained advisers and is completely free to call. Live chat is also available on their website.
GamCare
Website: gamcare.org.uk | Helpline: 0808 8020 133. GamCare provides free information, support and counselling for anyone affected by problem gambling, including friends and family members. GamCare operates the National Gambling Treatment Service, which provides free treatment for gambling problems.
Gambling Therapy
Website: gamblingtherapy.org | Free online support service operated by Gordon Moody. Provides online counselling, support groups and a residential programme for those with severe gambling problems.
Gamblers Anonymous UK
Website: gamblersanonymous.org.uk | A fellowship of individuals who share their experience, strength and hope with each other. Regular meetings across the UK, free of charge.
Gordon Moody
Website: gordonmoody.org.uk | Provides intensive residential and online therapy programmes for people suffering from gambling-related harms.