Immediate, practical tools for reducing gambling access and finding free confidential help.
Responsible gambling and support
Gambling should never be treated as income or a solution to financial pressure. If it is causing concern, act early.
Need help now?
National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 in England and Scotland, or 0808 2819 265 in Wales. Free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit GambleAware.
If there is immediate danger or risk of harm, call emergency services on 999 or use urgent NHS mental-health support.
Protective tools
- GAMSTOP: free self-exclusion from online gambling businesses licensed in Great Britain.
- Operator controls: deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion inside individual accounts.
- Bank gambling blocks: ask your bank which card and transfer types its block covers.
- Blocking software: device-level tools can add another barrier.
- Marketing opt-outs: unsubscribe and disable gambling push notifications.
Warning signs
Chasing losses, borrowing, hiding gambling, missing bills, changing limits, sleep problems or difficulty stopping are reasons to pause. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.
Support for someone else
Listen without judgement, protect shared finances where appropriate and seek specialist advice. Do not lend money to continue gambling or try to recover losses on the person’s behalf.
Last reviewed: 2 September 2026