Emergency Support
If you're in crisis or need immediate support, these organizations are here to help right now:
Talk to trained advisers via phone or live chat
gamcare.org.uk
Self-Exclusion Services
GAMSTOP - National Self-Exclusion
GAMSTOP is a free service that allows you to self-exclude from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites with a single registration. You can choose to exclude yourself for 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Why use it: The most effective way to block access to all UK-licensed gambling operators at once
Gamban - Software Blocking Tool
Gamban is a software application that blocks access to gambling websites and apps across all your devices. It works alongside GAMSTOP for extra protection.
Website: www.gamban.com
Cost: First month free, then £2.50/month (free for GamCare clients)
Financial Help & Debt Advice
If gambling has led to financial problems, these organizations provide free, confidential debt advice:
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National Debtline: 0808 808 4000 | nationaldebtline.org
Free debt advice helpline operated by the Money Advice Trust -
StepChange Debt Charity: 0800 138 1111 | stepchange.org
Free online debt advice and budgeting tools -
Citizens Advice: citizensadvice.org.uk
Free, independent advice on money, debt, and consumer issues
Support for Friends & Family
Problem gambling doesn't just affect the person gambling—it impacts families, friends, and loved ones too. If someone you care about has a gambling problem, these services can help:
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GamAnon: gamanon.org.uk
Support groups for partners, family members, and friends of problem gamblers -
GamCare Friends & Family Support: Get Support
Confidential support and advice for those affected by someone else's gambling -
Gordon Moody Association: 01384 241292 | gordonmoody.org.uk
Residential treatment and support for problem gamblers and their families
Counselling & Treatment Services
Professional treatment and counselling services for problem gambling:
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NHS Gambling Clinics: Available free on the NHS
Ask your GP for a referral to the National Problem Gambling Clinic or regional services -
Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Free peer support meetings across the UK based on the 12-step recovery program -
Gordon Moody: 01384 241292
Residential treatment programs for severe gambling addiction
Online Resources & Tools
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BeGambleAware Website: begambleaware.org
Self-assessment tools, guides, and resources for staying in control -
GamCare Forum: forum.gamcare.org.uk
Anonymous online forum to share experiences and get peer support -
Gambling Therapy: gamblingtherapy.org
Free online support in multiple languages, live chat, and email support
Remember: You're Not Alone
Thousands of people in the UK struggle with problem gambling every year. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. All the services listed above are confidential, non-judgmental, and designed to help you regain control.
If you're not ready to talk to someone yet, that's okay. Start by visiting BeGambleAware.org to learn more about problem gambling and take their self-assessment tool.