There are many organisations that can provide help and support to individuals who develop a problem with gambling. If you feel that you may have a problem controlling your gambling, we strongly recommend that you contact one of the following professional organisations for free and confidential guidance and advice.
GamCare: GamCare is a registered charity that provides confidential telephone support and counselling to anyone who is affected by problem gambling. If you have questions or concerns about your own gambling or about a friend or family member, then calling the National Gambling Helpline (which is operated by GamCare) is a good place to start looking for appropriate help. The National Gambling Helpline offers free and confidential support, information and advice on problem gambling either via telephone, online (NetLine) or text. Trained counsellors will set you up with free counselling available around the UK. It can also signpost you to chat room forums as well as printed information depending on what you need and when. GamCare can be contacted on 0808 8020 133 (freephone from UK) or by visiting their website at www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware: GambleAware promotes responsibility in gambling. The site provides information to help people make informed decisions about their gambling and provides information on staying in control, how to recognise and deal with problem gambling and where to go for further information, help and support should you need it. Further information can be found at www.begambleaware.org.
Gambling Therapy: Gambling Therapy offers online support to anyone addicted to gambling and those who show problematic gambling behaviour. Further information can be found at www.gamblingtherapy.org. Gambling Therapy also offers a free app downloadable from both the AppStore and Google Play. The app contains tools and information to help you identify and overcome problem gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous: Gamblers Anonymous provides confidential face-to-face counselling to anyone who is affected by problem gambling. Gamblers Anonymous can be contacted at www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
BigDeal: If you feel that you may have an issue with underage gambling or you just want to learn more, BigDeal (which is run by GamCare) is an organisation for young people that offers education and support around gambling. Further information can be found here www.bigdeal.org.uk.
Youth Access: Youth Access is the UK’s national membership organisation and directory for young people's information, advice, counselling and support services. Further information can be found by calling 020 8772 9900 or visiting their website at www.youthaccess.org.uk.
GamBlock: If you wish to refrain from gambling, we strongly advise you to install gambling website blocking software such as GamBlock. Please visit www.gamblock.com
GAMSTOP: If you are considering self-exclusion, you may wish to register with GAMSTOP. GAMSTOP is a free service that enables you to self-exclude from all online gambling companies licensed in the UK. To find out more and to sign up with GAMSTOP please visit www.gamstop.co.uk. You can also call 0800 138 6518 (8am to midnight, 7 days a week). This number is for consumers only.
The Samaritans: Get in touch with The Samaritans at www.samaritans.org.uk or on 116 123 (freephone from the UK).