Keep it enjoyable. Keep it in control.
Gambling is a form of entertainment that costs money. It is not a way to make money, recover losses or solve financial problems. If it stops being enjoyable, take a break.
Simple checks before you play
- Set a deposit limit you’re comfortable losing entirely.
- Decide on a session time limit before you start, not during.
- Never gamble with money set aside for rent, bills or family commitments.
- Don’t gamble while drinking heavily, very tired, or feeling low.
- Step away after a loss instead of trying to chase it back.
Tools every UK-licensed operator must offer
- Deposit limits — daily, weekly and monthly caps you set yourself.
- Reality checks — pop-ups during play that show how long you’ve been on.
- Time-outs — short cool-down periods from one day up to six weeks.
- Self-exclusion — block your account for six months or longer.
Free, confidential help in the UK
The organisations below are independent of this site and free to use.
National Gambling Helpline
Run by GamCare, the National Gambling Helpline offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 0808 8020 133. You can also chat with an adviser online through the GamCare website.
GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP is the UK’s national online self-exclusion scheme. Once you sign up, all UK-licensed online gambling operators are required to block your account for the period you choose.
Under-18s
Online gambling in the UK is restricted to adults aged 18 and over. GameScout UK is also intended only for adult readers. If you’re a parent or guardian, GambleAware has clear guidance on protecting children from gambling content online.