“I found GamCare through an internet search and at first I contacted them via the NetLine. When I’d just had a big loss for the second time, I started to realise I needed help to stop gambling. I wanted to stop for good, and I felt counselling would be the kind of support I needed.” Tom …

I got so good at lying about gambling, now I help others open up through the Peer Aid programme. You can talk to someone who understands. Call the National Gambling Helpline now for free support, self-exclusion and gambling blocking software.

“The fact that I’ve used that service [GAMSTOP] with the blocking software and the counselling has given me three big pillars to stand on.”

"I’d always been a gambler, mainly focussed around betting on horses and football. Then I began to play blackjack – I had a ‘system’ and I thought it would be an easy way to make money. Although I was successful, I had some very close calls and I was betting large amounts.” After a …

John, 37, Manchester

"At the moment, knowing that there are a couple of measures in place, just in my head, it gives me the block to say, 'You can't gamble.”

I contacted GamCare about six months ago, first over the phone and then through their NetLine. I had spotted their details in betting shops as well as online, as I’ve had multiple relapses while trying to address my compulsion to gamble. I finally decided enough was enough. I was sick of the …