18+. This content is not intended for an audience under 18 years of age. Gambling can be addictive. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
Staying in control
- Set a budget and a time limit before you start, and stick to them.
- Never chase losses by gambling more to win money back.
- Treat gambling as paid entertainment, never as a way to make money or solve money problems.
- Avoid gambling when you are tired, stressed, upset or have been drinking.
- Take regular breaks and keep gambling balanced with other activities.
Tools at UK-licensed platforms
Platforms licensed by the UKGC must provide tools to help you stay in control. Look for them in your account settings and switch them on before you play:
- Deposit limits — cap how much you can deposit each day, week or month.
- Time-outs and cool-off periods — a short break from the platform’s site.
- Reality checks — reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Self-exclusion — close your access to a platform for a longer period.
- Activity statements — see what you have deposited, withdrawn and won or lost.
Exclude yourself from all UK online gambling
GAMSTOP is the free national self-exclusion service. One registration stops you using online gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain for the period you choose. Licensed platforms must honour GAMSTOP registrations.
You can also ask your bank about blocking gambling transactions, and use blocking software on your devices. If children use your devices, use parental controls to keep gambling content away from them.
Where to get help
Free, confidential support is available for you and for people close to you:
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 Free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- www.begambleaware.org Information and advice, a free self-assessment and links to treatment and support across the UK.
- www.gamcare.org.uk Counselling, support groups and live chat for anyone affected by gambling.
- Gordon Moody Residential and online treatment for people with severe gambling problems.