Responsible gambling
Practical UK help — not a sales pitch.
Gambling is entertainment with a built-in house edge. It is not income, not an investment, and not a way to fix a shortfall. If you are chasing losses or hiding play from people close to you, stop and use the resources below — they are free and confidential.
GamStop — UK-wide self-exclusion
GamStop blocks access to UK-licensed online gambling for the period you choose (six months, one year, or five years). Registration is at gamstop.co.uk. It covers participating operators; always check your specific accounts closed cleanly.
GamCare — advice and support
GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7). Online chat and counselling referrals are available at gamcare.org.uk.
GambleAware — information and treatment signposting
GambleAware publishes research and routes people to treatment via gambleaware.org.
Tools on licensed sites
UK operators must offer deposit limits, reality checks, time-outs, and self-exclusion in account settings. Set a limit before your first deposit, not after a loss.
Official resources