Gambling is a paid form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Over time the house edge means you should expect to lose what you stake. These tools help keep it that way: a cost you chose, not a problem.
Before you play
- Decide how much you can afford to lose and how long you will play, and stop when either runs out.
- Never chase losses or gamble with money meant for bills, rent or debt.
- Avoid gambling when you are stressed, low or have been drinking.
- Use the free play-money games here to learn rules, not to "practise winning".
Tools every UK-licensed site must offer
- Deposit limits per day, week or month.
- Time-outs for a short break, and reality checks that remind you how long you have played.
- Self-exclusion from that operator for a set period.
- Account history showing what you have staked, won and lost.
GAMSTOP: block every UK site at once
GAMSTOP is a free national scheme. Register once and you are blocked from gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain for the period you choose. You cannot cancel during that period.
Other practical blocks
- Bank gambling blocks: many UK banks let you block card payments to gambling companies in their app.
- Blocking software on your phone and computer.
- Betting shop self-exclusion for high street bookmakers.
Warning signs
Spending more than you planned, hiding gambling from people close to you, borrowing to gamble or feeling anxious when you are not gambling are signs to stop and talk to someone.
Free, confidential support
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133, free, 24 hours a day.
- BeGambleAware: advice, a self-assessment and local treatment services.
- GamCare: support, live chat and counselling.
- Gamblers Anonymous UK: peer support groups.
Under 18?
Gambling is illegal for anyone under 18 in the UK. LuckyTalks is for adults only. Parents can use device-level parental controls to block gambling sites.