Only adults are permitted to gamble — you've got to be at least 18. It's a type of entertainment when it's at its best, something you budget a specific sum for to have some fun, similar to how you might for a night out. You should use funds that you can comfortably afford to lose, and the moment it stops feeling like entertainment is the moment to step back.
Signs it may be becoming a problem
It is worth being truthful with yourself if you recognise any of the following:
- Using more funds or time than you intended, or trying to recover lost money by gambling more.
- Taking out loans, or concealing your gambling habits from those near you.
- Experiencing irritability, low mood or anxiety when you aren't gambling.
- Neglecting your sleep, work, interests or relationships.
Practical limits you can set
- Establish a budget before beginning, and consider it spent when it's gone.
- Create a time limit, and use the deposit and loss limits most gambling sites offer.
- Avoid gambling when you're tired, bored, or upset, or to recover losses.
- Remove gambling apps and bank cards from your phone if that helps.
Where to get help in the UK
National Gambling Helpline (GamCare) — available every day, 24 hours a day, for free and in confidence. Dial 0808 8020 133, or use WhatsApp or live chat. In Wales, you can dial 0808 2819 265, also 24/7. Assistance is available for anyone in Scotland, England and Wales, including those impacted by the gambling of others. GamCare provides short-term support via email as well, with responses within two working days.
GAMSTOP — a free service for self-exclusion that prevents access to gambling apps and sites operated by UK-licensed providers. To sign up, give your title, name, date of birth, email address, mobile number and home address, then confirm your identity and email (using Onfido or TransUnion). You select a minimum duration of six months, one year, five years, or five years with auto-renewal. While not guaranteed, exclusion is usually active within 24 hours. For questions: 0800 138 6518 or [email protected].
TalkBanStop — a joint effort by Gamban, GamCare and GAMSTOP, bringing the helpline, GAMSTOP self-exclusion and free Gamban blocking software together in one location.