Responsible Gambling
Gambling should only ever be entertainment you can afford. Set a deposit limit before you start, take breaks, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, free and confidential help is available 24/7 from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
Warning signs
- Spending more money or time than you intended, or more than you can afford.
- Chasing losses, or gambling to win back money.
- Borrowing, or using money meant for bills, to gamble.
- Hiding gambling from people close to you, or feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling.
- Gambling to escape problems, stress or low mood.
Tools at every licensed site
| Tool | What it does |
|---|---|
| Deposit limits | Caps how much you can deposit per day, week or month. Decreases apply straight away; increases have a cooling-off period. |
| Reality checks | Reminds you how long you have been playing. |
| Time-out | Locks your account for a short break. |
| Self-exclusion | Closes your account with that operator for at least six months. |
| GAMSTOP | Excludes you from every online operator licensed in Great Britain at once. |
Other ways to block gambling
- Bank gambling blocks — many UK banks and card providers let you block gambling transactions in their app.
- Blocking software — tools such as Gamban and BetBlocker block gambling sites and apps on your devices.
- Ad settings — limit gambling adverts on social media and unsubscribe from marketing emails.
Free, confidential support
- GamCare — National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133, 24/7, plus live chat.
- BeGambleAware — information and self-assessment tools.
- GAMSTOP — free online self-exclusion.
- Gamblers Anonymous UK — peer support meetings.
- GamAnon — support for family and friends.
- NHS gambling addiction support — including NHS specialist clinics.
Protecting children
Gambling is for adults only. If others use your devices, keep accounts logged out, use parental controls and blocking software, and never share your login details.
Frequently asked questions
What is GAMSTOP?
GAMSTOP is a free self-exclusion scheme. One registration blocks you from all online gambling operators licensed in Great Britain for the period you choose (6 months, 1 year or 5 years).
Where can I get help with gambling right now?
Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, free and available 24 hours a day, or use the live chat at gamcare.org.uk.
Can I stop seeing gambling adverts?
Yes. Major social media and search platforms let you limit gambling-related adverts in your ad settings, and you can unsubscribe from operators’ marketing at any time.
Is it legal to gamble under 18?
No. Online gambling in Great Britain is for adults aged 18 and over, and licensed operators must verify your age before you can deposit.