Responsible Gaming
How do you recognise if gambling is taking control?
Problem gambling often develops gradually. You might notice yourself spending more money or time on gambling than intended, or continuing to bet even after losing. Other warning signs include using gambling to escape stress or difficult feelings, borrowing money to fund bets, hiding your gambling from friends or family, or feeling anxious when you can’t gamble. If you’re chasing losses—betting more to recover what you’ve lost—that’s particularly worth taking seriously. Not everyone experiences every sign, but recognising any of these patterns early makes it easier to take action.
What practical tools can you use to set limits?
Most online operators licensed in Great Britain offer built-in controls. Deposit limits cap how much money you can add to your account within a day, week, or month, taking effect immediately or after a brief waiting period to prevent impulse changes. Loss limits restrict how much you can lose before your account blocks further play. Time-out features temporarily suspend your account for hours or days, giving you space without permanently closing it. These tools are accessible through your account settings and are free to use. The key is being honest about what limit would actually help you, rather than setting one you might quickly increase.
Where does Great Britain provide professional support?
The National Gambling Helpline operates 24 hours a day, free and confidential, offering advice and treatment through phone, live chat, or WhatsApp. Multiple treatment services across the country provide specialist therapy and counselling. The National Gambling Support Network connects you to local services tailored to your area and needs. Organisations like GamCare and GambleAware provide information and self-help resources. For those with partners or family members affected, GamAnon and similar groups offer peer support. Most services have waiting times of 5 to 10 days before treatment begins, but reaching out is the necessary first step.
What is GAMSTOP and how does registration protect you?
GAMSTOP is the free national self-exclusion scheme that blocks access to every UK-licensed online gambling site with a single registration. Once enrolled, all operators licensed by the Gambling Commission are legally required to refuse you access. The scheme does not affect betting shops or the National Lottery. Registration involves a soft identity check that doesn’t affect your credit score. More than 560,000 people have used GAMSTOP since its launch. You can choose exclusion periods from six months to five years, or indefinitely. This tool works best when combined with support and other limits.
Need to talk to someone?
Contact us through the feedback form on our site if you have questions about gambling safety. For immediate support, phone the National Gambling Helpline or visit the support organisations listed above.