Key Points About GAMSTOP
Self-exclusion through GAMSTOP is a significant responsible gambling decision. Understanding the terms helps you prepare. Keep these details in mind before registering.
- It's irreversible during the chosen period. If you select 1 year, there's no mechanism to lift the exclusion early, regardless of circumstances.
- It covers online gambling only. Betting shops, bingo halls, and land-based casinos aren't included. Those are covered by separate local exclusion schemes.
- Existing balances: Any funds remaining in your casino accounts at the time of exclusion will be returned to you.
- After the period expires: The exclusion doesn't lift automatically. You must contact GAMSTOP and request removal, which includes a further 24-hour waiting period.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Warning signs of problem gambling emerge gradually, whether through apps, online casinos, or land-based venues. Organisations like GamCare identify several behavioural patterns that indicate gambling has become harmful. Watch for these patterns in your own behaviour.
- Spending more than you can afford to lose
- Chasing losses by increasing bets after a losing session
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, relationships, or daily responsibilities because of gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Lying to friends or family about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Using gambling as a way to cope with stress, depression, or other emotional difficulties
- Repeatedly attempting to cut down or stop gambling without success
If you recognise any of these patterns in yourself, the organisations below provide free, confidential support.
UK Support Resources
Free, confidential support is available across the UK for anyone affected by problem gambling. Several organisations provide counselling, treatment referrals, and responsible gambling resources. Talking to friends and family about what you're going through is also a practical first step.
GamCare
GamCare operates the National Gambling Helpline and provides free counselling, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling, including family members. It is one of the UK's primary responsible gambling support providers. All services are free and confidential.
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Live chat: Available at gamcare.org.uk
- Services: One-to-one counselling, group therapy, online peer support forums
BeGambleAware
BeGambleAware provides responsible gambling information, guidance, and referral to treatment services. Their website includes self-assessment tools to help you evaluate whether your gambling habits have become problematic. Treatment referrals cover a range of options, from counselling to residential programmes.
- Website: begambleaware.org
- Services: Treatment referrals, self-assessment tools, educational resources
GAMSTOP
- Website: gamstop.co.uk
- Services: Free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous provides a peer-led support network for people affected by gambling addiction. They run a fellowship programme based on the 12-step recovery model. Meetings are held across the UK and online, providing peer support from others who've experienced gambling addiction first-hand.
- Website: gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- Services: In-person and online group meetings, recovery programme, support for families
NHS National Gambling Treatment Service
The NHS offers free specialist treatment for gambling addiction through the National Gambling Treatment Service. This includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), one-to-one counselling, and residential programmes for severe cases. You can self-refer without needing a GP appointment.
- Referral: Self-refer via the NHS gambling addiction page
- Services: CBT, counselling, residential treatment, financial counselling
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