Safer gambling

Help now

• National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133, free, 24 hours a day, run by GamCare.
• GamCare: gamcare.org.uk for live chat and treatment.
• BeGambleAware: begambleaware.org for advice and a self-assessment.
• GAMSTOP: gamstop.co.uk to exclude yourself from all UK-licensed sites.

In immediate danger, call 999. Samaritans: 116 123.

Tools at every licensed slot site

Deposit limits

A daily, weekly or monthly cap on what you can pay in. Reductions apply at once.

Reality checks

On-screen reminders of time and money spent. UK slots must also show your net position.

Time-outs

A break of a day to six weeks.

Self-exclusion

At least six months at one site, or everywhere through GAMSTOP.

Why slots need extra care

A spin takes seconds and the next is one press away. UK rules slow this down, with a 2.5 second minimum, no autoplay and stake caps described in our UK slot rules guide, but a slot session can still move a lot of money in a short time. High volatility games add long losing runs that tempt players to raise stakes.

Warning signs

• Raising your stake to win back losses.
• Playing longer than you planned.
• Depositing again straight after a balance runs out.
• Using money needed for bills.
• Hiding play from others.
• Feeling low or restless when not playing.

Habits that help

• Fix a budget and a time before you start.
• Choose a stake that gives the budget plenty of spins.
• Take the break when the reality check appears.
• Withdraw wins instead of playing them back.
• Never play to change your mood.

Someone else's gambling

GamCare supports family and friends on the same number. Only UK-licensed sites are part of GAMSTOP.