If gambling is affecting you or someone close to you, help is available now.
National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 — free, confidential, 24/7.Safer Gambling
Last updated: 30 September 2026Free help, self-exclusion and practical tools for anyone in the UK who wants to stay in control of their gambling.
Gambling Is Entertainment, Not a Way to Make Money
Gambling always involves risk. Most people who gamble lose more than they win over time, and no strategy, system or game changes that. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and treat anything you spend as the cost of entertainment.
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Need to talk now? Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 — free, confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Signs That Gambling May Be Causing Harm
Gambling harm can build up slowly. These are some common signs, in yourself or in someone close to you:
If any of these sound familiar, free and confidential help is available. The NHS also links to a short self-assessment (the Problem Gambling Severity Index) that can help you reflect on your gambling.
Where to Get Free, Confidential Help
These organisations support anyone affected by gambling, including family and friends:
GamCare
Runs the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) and live chat. Counselling and support for anyone affected by gambling.
GambleAware
Independent charity with information, self-assessment tools and routes into free treatment across Great Britain.
GamStop
Free self-exclusion from all online gambling businesses licensed in Great Britain for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
- NHS gambling support — specialist NHS gambling clinics across England accept self-referrals. See nhs.uk.
- Gamblers Anonymous — local and online peer support meetings.
- GamAnon — support for family members and friends of people who gamble.
Self-Exclusion and Blocking Tools
GamStop lets you exclude yourself from every online gambling business licensed in Great Britain in one step. It is free and you choose the period: 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. During that time licensed operators must not let you gamble.
You can also:
- Self-exclude directly with a single casino through your account settings.
- Install blocking software such as Gamban (paid) or BetBlocker (free) to block gambling websites and apps on your devices.
- Ask your bank to switch on a gambling block. Many UK banks offer this in their app.
Safer Gambling Tools at UK-Licensed Casinos
Casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission must give players tools to stay in control. These include:
- Deposit limits — since 31 October 2025, licensed operators must ask new customers to set a financial limit before their first deposit.
- Reality checks — reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Time-outs — a short break from your account, from 24 hours up to several weeks.
- Self-exclusion — closing your account for a longer period.
- Online slot stake limits — a maximum of £5 per spin, or £2 per spin for players aged 18 to 24.
Credit cards cannot be used for gambling with UK-licensed operators.
Practical Tips for Staying in Control
- Set a budget and a time limit before you start, and stop when you reach either.
- Never chase losses.
- Do not gamble when you are stressed, upset or have been drinking.
- Take regular breaks and balance gambling with other activities.
- Keep gambling money separate from money for bills and essentials.