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Self-exclusion

You can ask a business to exclude you from gambling with them for a set length of time – usually between six months and five years. This is called self-exclusion. 

It means you will be refused service from these venues and websites. Gambling businesses must offer this option by law. 

If you think self-exclusion could work for you, make sure you exclude yourself from all the places where you may be tempted to gamble.

GamCare does not operate any of the following self-exclusion schemes.

Self-exclusion from Online Gambling

www.gamstop.co.uk

Registering for GAMSTOP will block you from online logging into or setting up gambling accounts with businesses licensed in Great Britain if you are a UK resident. It is a free  service. You can register for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.

As part of our TalkBanStop campaign, we recommend registering for free Gamban blocking software for your devices as well as excluding yourself through GAMSTOP. Click here to contact us for more information.

GAMSTOP have also created a short video to explain more about their service:

You can also download GAMSTOP’s registration guide here >>

Self-exclusion from just one gambling website or app:

  • Go to the website of the gambling business.
  • Find a page called ‘Responsible Gambling’ or ‘Safer Gambling’.
  • Follow the instructions for self-exclusion. 
  • If you cannot find out how to self-exclude, contact the company’s customer services.

Self-exclusion from one arcade, betting shop or casino:

  • Visit the venue you want to self-exclude from.
  • Speak to the shop manager or a member of staff, let them know you want to self-exclude.
  • You don’t need to take any money, bank or credit cards with you.
  • Take a couple of passport size photos to go on the form; this can help the staff to identify you.
  • Get a copy of the self-exclusion form for your records.

Self-exclusion from more than one bookmaker/betting shop in your area:

Please note this scheme is not operated by GamCare – if you have any questions or queries about your registration please call the number below.

Self-exclusion from all UK casinos

To self-exclude from all land based UK Casinos, please visit the SENSE website.

Self-exclusion from UK bingo venues:

For more information on self-excluding from all land-based bingo venues across Great Britain, please visit the Bingo Association website.

Self-exclusion from arcades and gaming centres:

For more information please visit the Bacta website.

Free tools and support from TalkBanStop

We’ve recently partnered with GAMSTOP for our latest campaign, TalkBanStop. A partnership that combines practical tools with support to help you to stop gambling and kick-start your recovery journey.

It all starts with a chat. Get in touch with a trained Adviser on the National Gambling Helpline for free confidential information, advice, and support. You’ll also be able to access a free Gamban license and we’ll talk you through the benefits of self-excluding with GAMSTOP if you haven’t already. View more information here: TalkBanStop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why self-exclude?

Only you can decide if self-exclusion is right for you, but many people tell us it is a useful step if they struggle to control their gambling.

You may have a favourite venue or website that you have difficulty staying away from. Self-excluding may make it just a little bit easier.

Although businesses should do all they reasonably can to help you, a lot of the responsibility to stay away is still yours. We would also recommend using blocking software, and using gambling blocks offered by banks to stop gambling payments from your cards and accounts.

GamCare has a range of help, advice and support services available. If you’d like more detail about other types of support, talk to us.

Should I do anything else?

You can speak to our Advisers if you would like additional help and support, and take a look through the other pages in this section for more information and advice.

It is a licensing requirement for gambling operators to take all reasonable steps to prevent marketing material being sent to a self-excluded customer. You can find out more about blocking gambling adverts online and stopping unwanted email and SMS marketing in our recent blog >>

I'd like to continue to gamble but more safely - what can I do?

If you are struggling to control your gambling a complete break is usually the best option. However, you could think about setting limits for yourself on the sites you gamble on. 

You can also use our workbooks or self-guided resources to help you think about how much you are gambling, how it is affecting your life and whether you want to stop.

Go to begambleaware.org for more information on safer gambling.

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