Responsible Gambling: Where to Get Free Help in the UK

Crio Collective describes the inner workings of casino games. We don't operate games or accept bets. We realise some readers do gamble, though, which is why this page is important to us.

For adults, and only for fun

Gambling is intended for adults 18 and older. If you play, treat it as a paid form of entertainment, such as a cinema ticket. This is money spent, rather than a method to make money or resolve financial problems. The house edge mentioned on our game pages indicates that the odds favour the operator over time.

Signs it's becoming a problem

  • Consistently using more funds or time than you intended
  • Trying to recover lost money by gambling more
  • Taking out loans, or spending money intended for bills
  • Keeping your gambling a secret from those close to you
  • Experiencing irritability, anxiety or low mood when you aren't gambling

It's worth speaking with someone if any of these feel familiar.

Limits you can set

  • Set a budget before you start, using only money you can afford to lose. Stop once it's gone.
  • Set a time limit and set a phone alarm.
  • Use time and deposit limits in your account settings where they're offered.
  • Avoid gambling if you're drinking, tired or upset.

Where to get free help in the UK

National Gambling Helpline: operated by GamCare. You can reach them for free at 0808 8020 133 via WhatsApp, web live chat, or phone, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

In Wales: phone the National Gambling and NHS Wales Helpline for free on 0808 2819 265, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. England and Scotland use 0808 8020 133.

As part of the National Gambling Support Network, GamCare provides confidential, free support throughout Great Britain. For adults in Scotland, England and Wales, treatment is flexible and free. You can access this online, face to face, or by phone. For quality assurance, GamCare stores chat transcripts and call recordings for 28 days.

Worried about someone else? You can join the Affected Others programme from GamCare by using live chat or calling 0808 8020 133.

Need urgent help? Phone Samaritans on 116 123 if you can't contact GamCare. Dial 999 in an emergency.

More from GamCare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/