Safer play
Stay in control, get help if you need it
Online gambling is entertainment that costs money. It is not a way to earn an income, recover earlier losses, or fix a hard week. If a session ever feels like any of those things, that is the moment to stop, not push through.
Set limits before you play, not after
- Decide a deposit cap for the week before you log in, and enter it in the operator's deposit-limit screen. Every UK-licensed casino has one.
- Turn on a reality check at thirty minutes. You will be annoyed by it. That is the point.
- Use the loss-limit option if your operator offers one. It is the simplest backstop.
Free UK resources
- GAMSTOP — a free national scheme. One sign-up blocks you from every UK-licensed online operator for six months, a year, or five years. gamstop.co.uk
- GamCare — free, confidential helpline, live chat, and structured support sessions. Open every hour. gamcare.org.uk
- GambleAware — directory of treatment providers across England, Scotland and Wales. begambleaware.org
- UK Gambling Commission — the regulator. Use the public register to check any operator's licence. gamblingcommission.gov.uk
- Gamban — gambling-blocking software for phones and computers. Useful in combination with GAMSTOP. gamban.com
Warning signs worth taking seriously
- Chasing earlier losses with a deposit you had not planned.
- Hiding the amount you are spending from a partner, family member or housemate.
- Gambling to change a mood rather than for entertainment.
- Borrowing money — from a card, an app or a person — to fund a session.
None of these are character failings and they are all common. Talking to GamCare is free and you do not have to give your name.
A note for friends and family
If you are worried about someone else, GamCare has support for affected family members too. You do not need the person who is gambling to be the one who calls first.