Safer Gambling
Last updated: January 2026
Best Platform Guide believes gambling should remain entertainment. It is for adults aged 18 and over only and should always be kept within your means.
Tools to stay in control
- Deposit and spend limits
- Time and session limits with reality checks
- Cool-off periods
- A clear view of wins and losses
- Self-exclusion
GAMSTOP self-exclusion
GAMSTOP is the free national online self-exclusion scheme. Register at gamstop.co.uk to block yourself from all UK-licensed sites for a chosen period. From October 2025, players must set a deposit limit before a first deposit.
Blocking software
Gamban (gamban.com) blocks gambling apps and websites across your devices, and many banks offer a card-level gambling block.
Where to get help
The National Gambling Helpline is free on 0808 8020 133, 24/7, run by GamCare (gamcare.org.uk). TalkBanStop, Gordon Moody (gordonmoody.org.uk) and Gamblers Anonymous UK also offer support.
Warning signs
- Betting more than you can afford
- Chasing losses
- Borrowing to gamble
- Gambling affecting sleep, work or relationships
Under-18s
Gambling is for adults aged 18 and over only. On shared devices, parental-control software helps keep gambling content away from children.