18+ only. If a casino closing has left you feeling unsettled, or you notice an urge to replace it straight away, that is worth paying attention to. Support is free and confidential, and you do not need to be in crisis to use it.
Who to contact
| Service | Help offered | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| National Gambling Helpline | Advice and support at any hour | 0808 8020 133, gamcare.org.uk |
| GambleAware | Information and routes into treatment | gambleaware.org |
| GAMSTOP | Self-exclusion across GB-licensed online operators | gamstop.co.uk |
| Gamblers Anonymous | Peer support meetings | gamblersanonymous.org.uk |
Signs it may be time to talk to someone
- You play to win back what you have lost.
- You spend more money or time than you planned.
- You borrow money, or put off bills, in order to gamble.
- You hide your gambling from people close to you.
- You feel anxious, low or irritable when you are not playing.
Tools you can use today
- GAMSTOP: register for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. It cannot be cancelled during the minimum period, and it does not end on its own. You must ask for it to be removed.
- Bank blocks: many UK banks let you switch off gambling payments in their app.
- Blocking software: this stops gambling sites loading on your devices.
- Limits: every licensed operator must offer deposit limits and time-outs.
Sites to avoid
Sites promoted as "not on GAMSTOP" are not licensed in Great Britain and do not offer the protections described here. If you have self-excluded, please do not look for ways around it. Speak to the helpline instead.
Children and young people
Gambling under 18 is illegal. Keep logins private on shared devices, and consider parental controls.