We believe that gambling should remain an enjoyable form of entertainment. This page provides information about recognising problem gambling, the tools available to help you stay in control, and where to seek support if you need it. The operator’s own website contains details about how they manage player safety, while information about the regulatory framework can be found with the relevant gambling authority.
Recognising When Gambling Becomes a Problem
Problem gambling often develops gradually, and it may not always be obvious. Some warning signs include thinking constantly about gambling, needing to spend more money to achieve the same excitement, or feeling unable to stop despite repeated attempts. If gambling is being used to escape stress, anxiety, or other difficult emotions, this can also indicate an unhealthy pattern.
Financial warning signs matter too: unexplained money disappearing, growing debt, or difficulty being honest with family and friends about gambling activities are red flags. The impact on work, studies, relationships, or mental health signals that gambling has moved beyond entertainment.
Taking Control Through Available Tools
Operators who accept UK customers must provide built-in safer gambling features. These include deposit limits, which cap how much you can spend and cannot be increased immediately, offering a built-in cooling-off period. Session time-outs let you take a break for 24 hours to six weeks, pausing your account temporarily without closing it permanently.
For stronger action, self-exclusion with an individual operator prevents you from accessing that account for a minimum of six months. Those needing more comprehensive protection can use GAMSTOP, which blocks access to all UK-licensed online gambling sites at once for periods ranging from six months to five years—these exclusion periods are fixed and cannot be cancelled early.
Beyond platform-level tools, free software like GamBan or GamBlock can be installed on your devices to restrict betting sites. Many UK banks now offer free in-app gambling blocks as well.
Support and Help Services
If you’re concerned about your own gambling or someone else’s, free confidential support is available. The National Gambling Helpline offers advice and counselling by telephone on 0808 8020 133, open 24 hours every day. GamCare and the National Gambling Support Network provide free treatment and advice across Great Britain, including online chat and WhatsApp support.
For those wanting structured group support, Gamblers Anonymous meets regularly. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can also discuss financial and practical concerns related to gambling.