GamCare
Free, confidential advice and support for anyone affected by gambling problems.
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
- Live Chat: Available on their website
- Email Support: Response within 2 working days
- Local Support: Face-to-face counseling
Need Help Now?
If you're struggling with gambling, you're not alone. Help is available 24/7.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. Find support, tools, and information to help maintain control over your gambling.
Our Commitment: FreeBetAway only lists UKGC-licensed casinos that implement responsible gambling tools and comply with UK regulations. We do not promote unlicensed operators or "not on GAMSTOP" services.
Professional Help & Support
BeGambleAware
The leading charity promoting responsible gambling awareness and providing support.
- Information Hub: Self-help tools and resources
- Treatment Locator: Find local support services
- Family Support: Help for friends and family
- Online Community: Peer support forums
Gordon Moody Association
Specialist residential treatment and community support for gambling addiction.
- Residential Treatment: 12-week intensive program
- Community Support: Outreach and aftercare
- Family Program: Support for loved ones
- Phone Support: 01384 241292
NHS Gambling Support
NHS-funded gambling treatment clinics and mental health support services.
- NHS 111: Call 111 for immediate mental health support
- Local Clinics: Specialist gambling treatment centers
- Mental Health Teams: Integrated addiction services
- GP Referrals: Speak to your GP about treatment options
Self-Exclusion & Control Tools
GAMSTOP
The UK's free national self-exclusion service. Block access to all UKGC-licensed gambling sites and apps.
How it works:
- Choose 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years exclusion
- Automatic blocking across all licensed operators
- Prevents marketing communications
- Cannot be reversed once applied
Visit GAMSTOP
Important: This is a permanent decision that cannot be undone before the chosen period expires.
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly spending limits on your gambling accounts.
Available options:
- Daily deposit limits
- Weekly spending caps
- Monthly budget controls
- 24-48 hour cooling off period before increases
Available on all UKGC-licensed casino accounts
Time Limits & Reality Checks
Set session time limits and receive regular reminders about your play time.
Features include:
- Session time limits (30 mins to 24 hours)
- Pop-up reminders every 60 minutes
- Spend and time tracking
- Account history and activity reports
Mandatory on all UK-licensed platforms
Account Controls
Additional protective measures available on licensed gambling sites.
Control options:
- Loss limits and win limits
- Cool-off periods (24 hours to 6 weeks)
- Account freezing
- Marketing communication opt-outs
Contact customer support to set up these controls
Understanding Gambling Risks
What is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling occurs when gambling stops being a fun, recreational activity and starts to have a negative impact on your life. It can affect anyone, regardless of background, age, or experience.
Warning Signs:
Financial Signs
- Spending more than you can afford
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Hiding gambling losses
- Using credit cards or loans
Emotional Signs
- Feeling anxious or stressed about gambling
- Gambling to escape problems
- Mood swings related to wins/losses
- Guilt or shame about gambling
Behavioral Signs
- Gambling for longer than planned
- Lying about gambling activities
- Neglecting work, family, or hobbies
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
Safer Gambling Tips
Set a Budget
Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Never gamble with money needed for bills, rent, or other essentials.
Set Time Limits
Decide in advance how long you'll play and stick to it. Set alarms or use casino time limit tools.
Never Chase Losses
Accept losses as part of gambling. Trying to win back money by betting more usually leads to bigger losses.
Keep It Fun
Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems.
Avoid Alcohol
Don't gamble when drunk or under the influence. Alcohol impairs judgment and decision-making.
Talk to Others
Don't keep gambling problems secret. Talk to friends, family, or professional support services.
Understanding "Non-GAMSTOP" and Unlicensed Operators
Important Warning
Some people search for terms like "non-GAMSTOP casinos," "not on GAMBAN," or "casinos not on GAMSTOP." We want to provide education about why this is potentially dangerous.
What Are Unlicensed/"Non-GAMSTOP" Sites?
These are gambling sites that operate without a UK Gambling Commission license. While some may claim to be "regulated" elsewhere, they do not follow UK consumer protection laws.
Serious Risks:
- No UKGC consumer protections
- No segregated player funds
- Limited recourse for disputes
- May not honor withdrawals
- No responsible gambling tools
- Possible criminal activity
Why People Seek Them:
- GAMSTOP self-exclusion bypass
- Avoid deposit limits
- Higher betting limits
- Different payment methods
Our Position
FreeBetAway only lists UKGC-licensed casinos. We do not recommend, promote, or provide links to unlicensed operators. If you've excluded via GAMSTOP, this is for your protection.
Safer Alternatives:
- Speak to a gambling support service
- Use lower-risk licensed sites with strict limits
- Consider other forms of entertainment
- Wait for your GAMSTOP period to expire