Block them!

There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself by creating barriers to access dangerous gambling products and preventing harmful gambling messages from impacting your life. This process is known as 'self-exclusion'.

In just a few simple steps, you can build multiple layers of defence against these products, making it more challenging for them to reach you.

Note: While complete elimination of all gambling content might not be possible due to extensive advertising, taking these steps significantly reduces your exposure.

GAMSTOP is a free service that will block you from opening or accessing gambling accounts in your name with all licensed online UK gambling companies. You can sign up for six months, one year or five years. At the end of your chosen self-exclusion period, GAMSTOP will not automatically be removed – it will remain in place for a further seven years, or until removed.

Gamban is online software that you buy and install to restrict your phone, laptop, or computer from accessing gambling websites. This is an important part of managing your online safety. Alternatively, you can access Gamban for free via the TalkBanStop partnership.

Please be aware it can take up to 24 hours for blocks to start working. You can also do a digital detox and delete any gambling apps and games from the devices you own or access.

Many gambling companies offer user-controlled online tools to limit online gambling, such as deposit limits and “cool off periods”. However, the evidence shows these tools are unlikely to provide adequate protection, especially for someone currently suffering harm, so we recommend blocking them completely using the above tools.

Many UK banks provide free tools to block transactions categorized as gambling, both online and in physical venues.

Apply these blocks to each bank card you own to ensure comprehensive protection.

Betting shops

Licensed betting shops all operate exclusion schemes. You can sign up for these by going into a venue, or by using the links on this page. Exclusion will last for 12 months. If you’re visiting the betting shops in person we recommend taking a friend or support worker to help you do this safely.

You cannot self-exclude on behalf of someone else, even with their permission.

To exclude from multiple bookmakers, contact the multi-operator self-exclusion scheme online or phone the self-exclusion helpline on 0800 294 2060.

Arcades and adult gaming centres

Start by visiting and speaking with staff. They'll gather basic details and your permission for self-exclusion. This process may involve taking your photo to inform other staff of your exclusion.

For a comprehensive exclusion, contact selfexclusion@bacta.org.uk or call 0207 730 6444.

Choose between self-exclusion periods of 6 to 12 months

Bingo venues

Either visit the bingo venue in person to register for self-exclusion or complete an online form for each desired premise. You can choose to self-exclude for 6 to 12 months.

Casinos

Visit in person to self-exclude or join the SENSE scheme via the self-exclusion form. This will exclude you from all casinos and remove you from marketing databases. Self-exclusion for casinos lasts 6 months.

Please note that these steps apply to physical venues and not to apps or websites. For more information, visit the National Casino Forum website.

Promotional offers and marketing strategies are designed to keep you gambling. Take control of your preferences by opting out of communications from gambling operators in your account settings. For marketing emails, click “unsubscribe.”

You can also limit gambling advertisements on various social media platforms and Google.

Please note, it may not be possible to completely block all gambling advertising