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Safer gambling & support

Gambling involves the risk of losing money. It should never be a way to solve financial problems. If it is causing worry, taking a break and getting support can help.

Speak to someone

GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline offers free support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 0808 8020 133 or use GamCare’s support services.

You do not need to wait until a problem becomes severe to ask for support. If calling is difficult, follow the support link for online options. Tell the adviser where you live so they can help you find an appropriate service.

Self-exclusion

GAMSTOP provides online self-exclusion for participating gambling websites. Read its current eligibility and scope. You can also contact an operator directly about exclusion or a time-out.

Self-exclusion is a commitment to stop gambling, while a time-out is a shorter break with an operator. Check which accounts and websites your chosen arrangement covers. For betting shops, casinos or other premises, ask about the relevant premises or multi-operator scheme; do not assume an online exclusion covers visits in person. The Gambling Commission explains the different routes.

Set boundaries

Set a budget you can afford to lose before playing, and use time and deposit limits where available. Never borrow to gamble, chase losses or increase your spending to finish a promotion.

A limit is a ceiling, not a spending target or a guarantee that gambling is affordable. If you want to stop, a lower deposit limit is not a substitute for a break, self-exclusion and support. Our guide to deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion explains how the tools differ and what to check when setting them.

Add barriers on your bank account and devices

Ask your bank about gambling transaction blocks, the payments they cover and any delay before a block can be removed. GamCare explains bank gambling blocks. If a payment gets through unexpectedly, report it to the bank rather than testing the block with another payment.

Blocking software can restrict access to gambling websites and apps on your devices. Check device compatibility and any costs before choosing it. Practical barriers and personal support can be used together; no single tool should be treated as a guarantee.

Support for others

GamCare also supports people worried about a friend or family member. More information is available from GambleAware.

You can ask for support about someone else’s gambling even if they are not ready to seek help themselves. GamCare also provides information about protecting household finances and finding money support.

Information checked 25 September 2026. Follow each service’s current guidance for its eligibility and coverage.

18+ only. If you are under 18 and worried about gambling, you can still seek help through GamCare.