Gambling can be an enjoyable form of entertainment for adults, but it carries real risk. It should never be treated as a way to make money or to solve financial problems. This site is strictly for people aged 18 and over.
Free, confidential help – 24/7
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
- BeGambleAware: begambleaware.org
- GamCare: gamcare.org.uk
- Self-exclude from UK sites: GAMSTOP
Staying in control
- Only ever gamble with money you can afford to lose.
- Set a budget and a time limit before you start, and stick to them.
- Never chase your losses – trying to win money back usually makes things worse.
- Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed or under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep gambling as one of several activities, not the main one.
- Take regular breaks.
Tools your operator offers
Every UKGC-licensed casino must provide tools to help you stay in control. Look for these in your account settings:
- Deposit limits – cap how much you can pay in per day, week or month.
- Loss and spend limits – set a ceiling on losses over a period.
- Reality checks – on-screen reminders of how long you have been playing.
- Time-outs – take a short break of anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks.
- Self-exclusion – lock yourself out of an account for six months or more.
GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP is a free service that lets you self-exclude from all online gambling companies licensed in Great Britain at once. Register at gamstop.co.uk.
Signs it may be becoming a problem
- Spending more time or money than you intended.
- Gambling to escape stress, low mood or boredom.
- Borrowing money, or selling things, to gamble.
- Hiding your gambling from people close to you.
- Feeling anxious, guilty or irritable about your gambling.
- Neglecting work, family or other responsibilities.
If any of these feel familiar, support is available right now, and it is free and confidential. You are not alone, and reaching out early makes a real difference.
More support
- Gamblers Anonymous – local support groups across the UK.
- Gordon Moody – residential and online treatment for severe gambling harm.
- GamCare NetLine – live online chat with trained advisers.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or crisis, please contact your local emergency services.