Responsible gambling in the UK — limits, pauses, GAMSTOP and direct help

Put controls in place early

Use the licensed operator's deposit, loss and time controls before the first session. Choose figures that fit disposable entertainment money after bills and savings, not an amount based on what you hope to win. A limit is not a target.

Money

Set a firm ceiling

Decide the maximum affordable loss for a fixed period. Do not increase it to recover earlier losses.

Time

Use a separate timer

Set an alarm outside the gambling app. End the session when it rings, even if a game or promotion is still active.

Pause

Take time out

Licensed sites provide account breaks and self-exclusion. Use them when stopping through willpower alone feels difficult.

Access

Add more than one barrier

Combine GAMSTOP with bank gambling blocks and device blocking software where a single control is not enough.

Warning signs worth acting on

Trying to win back losses or increasing stakes after losing.
Hiding time or spending from people close to you.
Using money needed for rent, food, bills or debt payments.
Feeling restless, low or angry when trying to stop.
Gambling during work, study or time set aside for family.

One sign is enough to take a break and speak to someone. Support is not limited to people with a diagnosis, and family members can also contact GamCare.

How GAMSTOP works

GAMSTOP is a free national online self-exclusion scheme. Registration excludes a person from gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain for the selected minimum period. Details need to remain up to date so operators can match the exclusion correctly.

GAMSTOP does not cover every overseas website, retail venue or device by itself. That is why banking blocks, blocking software and support from another person can be useful alongside it. Avoid unlicensed sites that claim to bypass UK protections.

A limit works best before play begins