Keeping it in proportion.
Gambling is meant to cost money. If it stops being fun, there are practical steps you can take today, and free, confidential help in the UK. You don't have to be in crisis to ask for it.
Tools you can use today
Deposit and loss limits
Every UK-licensed online operator must let you set a deposit limit from inside your account. Set one before your first deposit, not after. A lower limit can be applied immediately; raising it takes 24 hours and a fresh confirmation.
Session reminders and time-outs
Reality checks pop up at intervals you choose, summarising how long you've played and what you've staked. Time-outs let you block your own account for 24 hours, a week, a month or up to six weeks.
Self-exclusion
Self-exclusion blocks your account for at least six months and removes you from the operator's marketing list. To self-exclude from every UK-licensed online operator at once, register with GAMSTOP — it is free and takes a few minutes.
Free, confidential UK support
- UK Gambling Commission — the statutory regulator. Useful for licence checks and unresolved complaints.
- GAMSTOP — free national self-exclusion across every UK-licensed online operator.
- GamCare — free advice, treatment, group support and the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
- GambleAware — independent charity, also funds free treatment via the National Gambling Treatment Service.
- Gambling Therapy — multilingual online support and forums.
Worried about someone else?
GamCare runs a separate support line for friends and family affected by someone else's gambling. You can call the same 0808 8020 133 number, chat online or use the GamCare forum. You do not need permission from the person you're worried about.
A few simple ground rules
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
- Set a budget before you start, not while you're playing.
- Don't chase losses — they don't come back faster the harder you push.
- Take breaks. Use time-outs if you need help taking them.
- Don't gamble to pay bills, debts or to make money.
This page is informational and is not a substitute for professional advice.