If you may be in immediate danger
Gambling support services are not emergency services. Call 999 now if you or someone else is in immediate danger. For urgent emotional support, call Samaritans free on 116 123, 24 hours a day.
Start with BetAid.org
BetAid brings the main routes to help together, making it a useful first stop when you are unsure what support you need.
See the real cost and find suitable help
Use the Money Reality Check to put gambling spend into everyday terms, then search BetAid's treatment directory for support available in your area.
BetAid is an information service, not an emergency or treatment provider.
Stop or block gambling
Use more than one barrier where possible: self-exclusion, device blocking and a bank block work at different points.
GAMSTOP
Free self-exclusion from gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain. Choose six months, one year or five years.
BetBlocker
Free blocking software for major phones, tablets and computers. Restrictions cannot be removed before the chosen period ends.
Gamban
Paid software that blocks gambling sites and apps across supported devices. Free access may be available through GamCare.
Bank gambling blocks
Many UK banks let you block gambling payments in their app. Ask your bank whether it offers a delay before a block can be switched off.
Controls on gambling sites
Licensed operators provide account tools. Their names and availability vary, so check the safer-gambling or account-settings area.
Deposit limits
Cap how much you can deposit over a day, week or month. Set a limit before depositing.
Time-outs
Take a short break from gambling without closing your account permanently.
Operator self-exclusion
Exclude from one operator and its linked brands. Use GAMSTOP for broader online coverage.
Reality checks
Switch on reminders showing how long you have played and, where offered, what you have spent.
Transaction history
Review deposits, withdrawals, wins and losses rather than relying on memory.
Marketing controls
Turn off gambling emails, texts and notifications, then unsubscribe from marketing lists.
Free help and treatment
These services support people who gamble and family or friends affected by someone else's gambling.
GamCare and the National Gambling Helpline
Free, confidential help for anyone affected by gambling. Phone and live support are available 24 hours a day.
NHS gambling clinics
Specialist NHS treatment for gambling-related harm. Services include regional clinics and support for affected family members.
Gordon Moody
Intensive residential treatment, retreat and counselling programmes for people seriously affected by gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous
Peer-led recovery meetings online and in person across Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Gambling Therapy
Confidential online support in many languages for people affected by gambling, wherever they live.
Money and debt support
Do not borrow more money to chase a loss. These organisations can help you understand your options without judgement.
StepChange Debt Charity
Free debt advice and a practical guide to dealing with gambling-related debt.
National Debtline
Free, independent debt advice by phone and online for people in England, Wales and Scotland.
Citizens Advice
Guidance on gambling problems, money, debt and the practical steps available to you.
A practical plan for today
Small barriers add up. If one step feels difficult, ask someone you trust to sit with you while you complete it.
- 01
Tell someone
Contact BetAid or GamCare, or tell a trusted person what is happening.
- 02
Block access
Register with GAMSTOP and install BetBlocker or Gamban on every device.
- 03
Block payments
Turn on your bank's gambling block and remove saved payment methods.
- 04
Protect your money
Move essential bills first and contact free debt support if payments are at risk.
- 05
Get ongoing support
Arrange treatment or peer support rather than relying on willpower alone.
Information checked 3 October 2026. External services may change their availability.