Gambling is for adults 18 years old and older. When it's at its best, it's a form of fun, similar to a night out or a movie — something you pay for and then leave. We explain games here that are designed so the house maintains an edge over time, so treat any money you spend as an entertainment cost rather than a method for making money.
Signs it's becoming a problem
It might be time to pause if you see any of the following:
- Using more cash or time than you intended.
- Trying to recover lost funds by continuing to play.
- Taking out loans, or keeping your gambling habits secret from those near you.
- Feeling anxious, low or short-tempered during periods when you aren't gambling.
- Letting work, sleep or relationships slip.
These experiences don't make you a bad person. It's a common pattern, and useful support exists.
Practical limits you can set
- Decide a budget before beginning, and treat it as spent money.
- Use your account to create limits on deposits, losses and time — these are available on most licensed sites.
- Use self-exclusion or a cooling-off period to pause your activity.
- Avoid using credit cards for gambling, and don't gamble to avoid a negative mood.
Where to get help in the UK
National Gambling Helpline (managed by GamCare): available for free at 0808 8020 133, 24 hours a day, daily. WhatsApp and live chat are also options, both 24/7. For Wales, dial 0808 2819 265, also 24/7. The service is non-judgemental, confidential and free.
GAMSTOP provides a free self-exclusion service that prevents access to apps and websites licensed for gambling in Great Britain. Register using your email, mobile, address, date of birth and name; the process takes a few minutes and the block can take up to 24 hours. You can select five years, one year, or six months. Contact them at 0800 138 6518 or [email protected].
GambleAware acts as the 'front door' for the National Gambling Support Network, offering treatment and free advice for individuals in Great Britain.
The TalkBanStop campaign combines three tools: GAMSTOP, free Gamban blocking software, and the GamCare helpline.