RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AND PLAYER SUPPORT

Immediate support

If there is immediate danger to life, dial 999. For urgent mental health help in England, use NHS 111; for emotional support, Samaritans can be reached on 116 123.

Steps to reduce access to gambling

• Register with GAMSTOP for self-exclusion from GB-licensed online gambling.
• Install gambling-blocking software such as BetBlocker.
• Ask your bank about gambling transaction blocks and reduce available credit or gambling deposits.
• Unsubscribe from promotional messages and remove gambling apps.
• Speak to a trusted person or clinician. A GP can discuss NHS specialist gambling treatment and associated mental health concerns.

NHS gambling clinics and hospitals in England

The NHS provides specialist gambling treatment clinics and regional services. The national NHS gambling treatment guide lists routes to the National Gambling Clinic, Northern Gambling Service, Southern Gambling Service and specialist services in the Midlands, East of England and South West. Some accept self-referrals; others can be reached with a GP’s support.

For the NHS National Gambling Clinic (London and South East adults, with some nationwide young-people services), the GambleAware directory lists 020 7381 7722 and [email protected]. Eligibility and opening hours should be checked through the clinic before contacting.

Use the GambleAware treatment finder to find local and remote support services.

Organisations and support services

Support for family and friends

Gambling can affect partners, children, housemates and friends through debt, stress and relationship breakdown. NHS services, GamCare and GambleAware also provide support for affected family members. You do not have to wait for the gambler to seek treatment before asking for help yourself.