Support your partner through gambling addiction while protecting your wellbeing

If you suspect your partner may have a gambling addiction, this can feel really tough and overwhelming. An estimated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2827151">80 million adults</a> worldwide experience a gambling disorder or problematic gambling, with thousands more harmed indirectly. The good news is, if your partner is suffering gambling harm, there are ways you can help. In this blog, we go through some of the things you can do to support your partner, while looking after your own wellbeing. <h3>Signs someone may have a gambling addiction </h3>Of course, none of these is definitive of having a gambling problem, but they might help you notice if something isn’t right. <ul><li>Their finances seem sporadic, sometimes having a lot and other times being stressed about money</li><li>Being protective and secretive over their phone</li><li>Suddenly being unable to cover major living expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments</li><li>Irregularities with your joint account (if you have one)</li><li>Items or money disappearing from your home</li><li>Hiding or being secretive about their bank statements</li><li>Poor performance or issues at work </li><li>They are asking you to borrow money with no indication of where it’s going</li><li>Becoming defensive when asked about gambling</li><li>Low mood, anxiety and loss of sleep</li><li>Lying about where they’ve been</li></ul><h3>How to approach them</h3>Opening up about any addiction will be a challenge, but a tough conversation now can be a huge help in their future. If they aren’t ready to talk now, give it some time and try again. Click here to read our blog on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-someone-about-their-gambling">how to talk to someone about a possible gambling addiction. </a><h3>Managing your finances </h3>If your partner is struggling with gambling, it may be best to separate your finances initially to protect your financial wellbeing whilst they get help. If your partner has borrowed money in your name and gambled with it, you do not need to pay it back yourself. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/gambling-problems/if-youre-worried-about-someones-gambling/">Speak to Citizens Advice</a> about how to challenge the debt and what steps you can take to protect your finances.Helping someone manage their money can feel like a bit of a step backwards, but having that accountability can be really helpful. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sibstar.co.uk/">Sibstar</a> are a debit card provider that allows you to have a ‘supporter’ who can see and manage outgoings, adding an extra layer of support. If your partner is in debt, there are many organisations that can help. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">Click here to find out more. </a><h3>Protecting your mental health</h3>Never blame yourself. Gambling addiction has no physical symptoms, and with it being so accessible, it’s incredibly easy to hide. The best thing to do is create a safe space where your partner can open up. You can also encourage them to install <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>, which blocks access to over 650,000 legal and illegal gambling sites. You cannot support your partner if you’re burnt out. Setting boundaries to protect your own mental health is vital. Opening up to a trusted friend or family member can help take some of the mental load and make you feel less alone. Addiction can make people lie and act in a completely different way to how they usually are. This can be extremely distressing for a partner, and that’s okay. You are allowed to have and express difficult emotions during this period, and you aren’t alone. GamFam is a charity set up by those who have experienced first-hand the devastating effects that gambling can have on family and friends. The online meetings are an opportunity to share your experiences in a safe space, with no fear of judgement and with others who have real empathy and understanding. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/">Find out more here. </a><h3>Relapsing </h3>Relapsing can happen in gambling addiction and whilst it’s not the end of the world, it can be frustrating for loved ones. This doesn’t mean recovery isn’t possible, and it doesn’t mean you or your partner have failed. It’s simply part of the process of recovering from an addiction. Understand where and why things went wrong and put blockers like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a> in place for the future. <h3>Celebrating progress and moving forward</h3>Recovery is possible for everyone. One of the best things you can do is help your partner celebrate their progress and reinforce all the reasons why they decided to stop gambling. Setting small but realistic financial goals is a good driver of this. Go from smaller items to things like weekends away, which you can both look forward to. <h3>Other resources</h3><ul><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/">here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/">here</a>.</li><li>There is peer support and support with the criminal justice system available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/">GamLEARN</a>.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord</a> is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li><li>Groups like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gameetingfinder.com/">Gamblers Anonymous</a> might not work for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm.</li></ul>

What To Do If My Partner Has A Gambling Addiction

Learn how to support a partner with gambling addiction while protecting your finances and mental health.

How long should you keep using recovery tools?

If you’re in gambling addiction recovery, you may be using tools like Gamban to stay on track. Having that accountability is really helpful, but you may be wondering how long you need to use them.The honest answer is that everyone is different when it comes to using recovery tools, some use them for several years and then feel they are no longer needed. Some have been free from gambling for 40 years yet still attend meetings and use blockers to have that peace of mind.Only you can decide what tools you need and when, but it’s important to remember that there is no time limit when it comes to urges and having that protection in times of need is key. <h3>Avoiding the pink cloud</h3>The pink cloud was first used to describe those in Alcoholics Anonymous, but it's also a good metaphor when looking at gambling addiction. When you’re in early recovery, you are often very excited and confident that you will be able to stay free from gambling. Your loved ones may be giving you lots of praise, and the feeling can be a similar high to that of addiction, dubbed the “pink cloud.”There is absolutely nothing wrong with feeling confident in your recovery - this is often what spurs you to keep going. The issue comes from being complacent. It might mean not putting blockers in place or attending meetings which were previously really helpful.As you continue your recovery journey, things can start to feel stale and flat, and you may get that itch. A bad day at work or simply being bored and wanting some dopamine. It might mean you convince yourself to place one bet, which eventually spirals. Because you haven’t got your blocker and your other tools which help keep you accountable, this is an easier slip. Knowing you have your chosen tools in place gives you a layer of protection on the bad days. Some people in Gamblers Anonymous have been attending for 50 years. This doesn’t mean they aren’t doing well, it just helps them stay on track.If you are in those early stages of recovery, absolutely celebrate every milestone! Just keep up with all those things you find helpful, so you can feel more confident in your recovery.<h2>Gamban Subscription</h2><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a> is an app that blocks access to online gambling and apps, we have over 650k legal and illegal sites blocked. With Gamban, after the 7-day free trial, you can choose a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/pricing">monthly rolling subscription or yearly</a>.When you're first putting recovery tools in place, it can be difficult to know how long you might need them for. But it's worth thinking about what happens when protection ends.Of course, Gamban isn’t a guarantee that you won’t gamble, but it can be that much-needed friction which stops a relapse. One of our users shared this on Reddit:It’s better to get the one-year plan, so you're not tempted from month to month to unsubscribe.Another commented:Gamban is the reason I’m about to hit 2 weeks gamble-free. Keep fighting, my guy, I’m so happy I downloaded itThat’s why, if you’re in a position to do so, it may be worth committing to a longer subscription while you’re feeling motivated to put those protections in place. Rather than reassessing every month, choosing a year gives you one less decision to make during a difficult moment.<h3>Gamblers Anonymous</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gameetingfinder.com/">Gamblers Anonymous (GA)</a> is an online or in-person meeting where those experiencing gambling harm can get together, talk, share or just listen. How long someone should attend is totally personal to them. Some may only want to attend a few, whilst others continue to attend long after they last gambled. Some find they have a regular meeting they attend, but also jump into other meetings if they are going through a challenging time and need someone to talk to.<h3>Other tools</h3><ul><li>If you have gambling debt, there are organisations that can help. Find out more<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt"> here</a>.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li></ul>

How Long Should I Use Gamban?

How long should you use gambling recovery tools? We look at blockers, GA, the pink cloud and why long-term protection can help.

A partnership built on shared values

We are very proud to announce that Gamban are partnering with Lewes Football Club for the 2026/27 season.Lewes FC has been campaigning against the harmful impact of gambling advertising in football since 2019, calling on the game’s governing bodies to take stronger action and introduce more regulation.Yet gambling advertising continues to dominate football, despite the harm gambling addiction can cause to individuals, families and communities.This makes the team at Lewes FC the perfect partners for Gamban. Our app is built by people with lived experience of addiction to support those who really need it. An estimated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/oct/02/landmark-study-shows-14m-britons-have-a-gambling-problem">1.4 million adults in Britain</a> experience a gambling problem, with sports betting serving as one of the primary drivers of addiction.The majority of football kits are covered in gambling sponsorships, while betting adverts are almost impossible to avoid in and around stadiums.We’re excited to be working with a club that shares our belief that football can do things differently.Gamban’s co-founder, Matt Zarb-Cousin said: “We are delighted to partner with Lewes FC, which has been leading by example in refusing betting sponsorship and calling for an end to gambling ads in football. Sports betting is a gateway to the highly addictive online slots and casino, which has created an epidemic of mental ill health and financial harm in Britain. Millions of people are now addicted and at-risk, while the gambling industry posts record profits. Lewes FC should be commended for platforming Gamban as an antidote.”John Peel, Lewes Director said: “I’m delighted to be partnering with such a purpose-driven and values-based organisation such as Gamban. Its software is helping hundreds of thousands of people combat gambling addiction and the relentless targeted advertising carried out by the industry, which is often focused upon highly vulnerable people.  “It is timely on our part given the introduction of the new tokenistic rules on front of shirt advertising coming in higher up the football pyramid.  And also, our own circumstances, whereby we are mandated to carry gambling advertising on the other sleeve of our shirt. ‘Pitching In’ is an organisation run by Entain plc who own, amongst others, Ladbrokes, Coral, Sportingbet and bwin. The Isthmian League has previously been sponsored by Bet Victor.”

Gamban Partners with Lewes FC

Gamban partners with Lewes FC for the 2026/27 season, joining a club that has long challenged gambling advertising and harm in football.

Tims Story

Founded by two friends who met through Gamblers Anonymous, Good Mind Circles is a support group for those suffering gambling harm and their loved ones. The team believe recovery is not just about stopping gambling, it’s about rebuilding life and relationships too. Events are welcoming and informal, you don’t need to talk about gambling, just turn up and enjoy. Find out more about the events<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.goodmindcircles.co.uk/blogs/events"> here</a>.<h3>This is Tim's story</h3>Part of my transition to recovery was definitely admitting my gambling had taken control of my life, but the real game changer was eventually understanding that it wasn’t a gambling problem I had but a problem with life itself, how I thought about myself and how I interacted (or didn’t interact) with the world.Although going through the 12-step programme was an important part of this process, it was the period of time I had to wait for the right sponsor to be available that I started opening up to the spiritual part of my life, which had laid dormant for 50 years. I realised pretty early on that communicating was an extremely important part of the process. A simple, natural human function that so many of us struggle with. In the early days I struggled with it too, worried about whether I was even worthy of an opinion. But learning to be vulnerable in front of people, being open and honest and sharing important aspects of my life opened me to the possibility of growth and maturity.This is where I see the connection with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.goodmindcircles.co.uk/">Good Mind Circles</a>. For me, it isn't really about the walks themselves, although being outside and walking together is a big part of what makes the environment so comfortable. It is about creating a space where people can interact with each other naturally, without judgement and without the pressure that can sometimes come with more formal support environments.Sometimes the most important conversations happen when you aren't actually trying to have a conversation. Walking alongside someone can make it easier to talk, to listen and, perhaps most importantly, to simply be yourself. You don't have to have the right words, you don't have to have all the answers and you don't have to pretend that everything is OK.That sense of connection has become increasingly important to me. Addiction can be incredibly isolating. It can cause us to withdraw from people, hide what is really going on and spend far too much time inside our own heads. Recovery, in many ways, has been about moving in the opposite direction — opening up, connecting with people, becoming comfortable with vulnerability and rediscovering the value of simply being part of something.That's why I see Good Mind Circles as being about much more than walking. It provides an opportunity to connect with other people in a pleasant and neutral environment, to talk if you want to talk, listen if you want to listen, and perhaps discover something about yourself along the way.For me, that is the real value of connection. The absolute opposite of addiction.

Good Mind Circles Guest Blog

Discover Tim’s recovery story and how Good Mind Circles uses walking, conversation and connection to support those affected by gambling harm.

And Clean Up High Streets

As of 2026, so many UK high streets are ghost towns. What were once lively and bustling streets are left quiet and run-down, with the only signs of life being vape and betting shops.  The newly elected leader of the Labour Party and Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, wants to give people and councils more control over what opens up in a bid to breathe life back into high streets. <h3>Gambling venues in deprived areas</h3>There is currently a disproportionate number of gambling venues in deprived areas, and last year, Gamban called this out.To put it into perspective, there are around <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://mhclgmedia.blog.gov.uk/2026/08/11/what-the-government-is-doing-to-improve-your-high-streets/#:~:text=%F0%9F%8E%B0%20There%20are%20around%201%2C450,more%20than%2080%20gambling%20venues.">1,450 adult gaming centres </a>across the UK, and more than half of these are in the poorest 20% of neighbourhoods. This is not accidental. The rise of so-called adult gaming centres in deprived locations is the gambling industry deliberately targeting vulnerable people. With enticing advertising and ‘free bet’ offers, they aim to profit from those who have the most to lose. <h3>Gambling addiction in the UK</h3>An estimated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/oct/02/landmark-study-shows-14m-britons-have-a-gambling-problem">1.4 million adults</a> in Britain have a gambling problem, and the issue is only getting worse. We are constantly bombarded with gambling advertisements on TV and social media, with free spins even being offered when booking on Uber. In the London Borough of Brent alone, there are more than <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://mhclgmedia.blog.gov.uk/2026/08/11/what-the-government-is-doing-to-improve-your-high-streets/#:~:text=%F0%9F%8E%B0%20There%20are%20around%201%2C450,more%20than%2080%20gambling%20venues.">80 gambling venues</a>. Both on and offline, gambling feels impossible to avoid. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/statistics-and-research/publication/understanding-how-consumers-engaged-with-gambling-advertising-in-2020">Gambling Commission research</a> found that, among gamblers prompted by a free-bet or free-money offer, 26% said it prompted them to gamble for the first time.Families are ruined, people fall into debt, crimes are committed, communities suffer and lives are lost. Why would society want something so destructive to be constantly promoted?<h3>How is the UK government helping?</h3>Earlier this week,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.instagram.com/andy.burnham/"> </a>Andy Burnham announced he would scrap the 'aim to permit' rule, which currently restricts councils from refusing new betting shops and 24-hour slot venues even when there are local concerns.From the start of next year, these locations will also need planning permission.The government will also support councils to tidy up shopfronts and make high streets more welcoming, setting clearer standards for how high streets should look and sharing best practice from places already getting it right.This is an excellent step in the right direction that prioritises protecting local communities and rebuilding the UK’s high streets ahead of gambling industry profits.<h3>Help for gambling harm</h3>If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling harm, there are organisations that can help.<ul><li>Self-exclude from all online gambling with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>.</li><li>If you have gambling debt, there are organisations that can help. Find out more<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt"> here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/"> here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/"> here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/"> GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support and support with the criminal justice system available at<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/"> GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li></ul>

UK Government To Clamp Down On Gambling Venues

UK high streets are changing. Could tighter rules on betting shops help protect communities and tackle gambling harm?

25th July 2026 in London

On 24th July, 1926, the first official greyhound race in the UK took place at Belle Vue dog track in Manchester.After a century of suffering, and an immeasurable number of deaths, greyhounds deserve real freedom now.They deserve safe homes, comfy sofas, and loving families.March with us this July as we challenge an industry that confines these dogs to concrete kennels, puts them in mechanical starting traps, forces them to run around dangerous tracks, and abandons them when they no longer make the grade.Register here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">link.shutdown.org.uk/march</a>Gather at 11:30 for a prompt 12:00 start. Full marching route and guidance can be found below:<figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/9d9807e2-1e17-4109-b74b-126210a1bfd5.jpg" /></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/22509808-85a1-4c80-9754-64e1ea37ff4b.jpg" /></figure>Now, with fewer than 20 dog tracks left in the UK, we have the chance to end this cruelty once and for all.

March To End Dog Racing

Century of Suffering - March to End Dog Racing Now

And How Can It Help Your Recovery

If you regularly use gambling websites and apps, you may be familiar with the idea of ‘self-exclusion’. In this blog, we talk about what self-exclusion is and why it is so helpful if you are recovering from gambling harm. <h3>What is self-exclusion from gambling?</h3>Self-exclusion in the UK is the process of asking gambling companies to prevent you from gambling with them for a set period. This is usually from 6 months to 5 years, during which time you won’t be allowed to access their online sites or venues until this period is over.You can also self-exclude from all online gambling sites with an app like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>. Once this has been downloaded, you won’t be able to access over half a million legal and illegal apps and websites.<h3>What are the different types of self-exclusion</h3><ul><li>National self-exclusion scheme, in some countries, national self-exclusion schemes are run by organisations (such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">Gamstop</a> in the UK). These services allow you to self-exclude from multiple licensed gambling websites and apps through a single registration.</li><li>Online gambling self-exclusion is asking gambling websites or apps to block you from using their services for a set period.</li><li>Betting shop self-exclusion, this applies to in-person bookmakers on the high street.</li><li>Casino self-exclusion is for land based casinos. Depending on your location, options include excluding from a specific venue, multiple operators, or joining a broader national scheme.</li><li>Bingo self-exclusion applies to bingo venues and bingo operators.</li><li>Adult gaming centre and arcade self-exclusion reduces access to machine-based gambling, but it won’t necessarily cover betting shops, casinos, bingo halls or online gambling sites.</li><li>Gambling blocking software, such as Gamban, is different from self-exclusion. Instead of relying on gambling operators or venues to block you, gambling blocking software helps block access to gambling websites and apps across your devices.</li></ul><h3>Why should I self-exclude from gambling?</h3>If you think your gambling has become harmful, self-exclusion gives you some much-needed separation from it. With gambling being so accessible on phones and other electronic devices, inserting a layer of friction is vital. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/n4lncape6m77/KPsyKOWYoXU3GlQdgHdtG/59eef82dae58226475115840fdf456ac/GAMSTOP_-_Effectiveness_report_-_June_2021.pdf">A 2021 independent evaluation of GAMSTOP</a> found that 82% of consumers had stopped or reduced gambling since registration, 80% said the scheme delivered their intended outcome, and 84% felt safer from gambling-related harm.<h3>How do I know if my gambling has become harmful?</h3><ul><li>You are gambling more than you can afford to lose.</li><li>Gambling is often the only thing you think about, and you have little interest in other things.</li><li>It’s negatively affecting relationships with your partner, family and friends.</li><li>It is affecting your work.</li><li>You have done or considered doing something illegal to keep up with your gambling. </li><li>Lying to others to conceal your gambling.</li><li>Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and losing sleep over gambling.</li></ul><h3>What self-exclusion doesn’t do </h3><ul><li>Doesn't stop you creating accounts with gambling sites or venues outside the scheme</li><li>Doesn’t block illegal or unregulated websites</li><li>If done at a single gambling operator, it won’t stop you accessing others</li><li>Doesn't stop gambling transactions through your bank</li><li>Doesn’t remove gambling ads from your phone, social feeds or search results</li><li>Doesn’t stop you using someone else’s account</li><li>Doesn’t stop access to crypto casinos, trading-style platforms or novel products that don’t fall under gambling regulation</li></ul><h3>How do I self-exclude myself from gambling?</h3><ul><li>Self-exclusion is simple and can be done in a few steps. Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/">here</a>. Responsibility for sticking with this lies with you, but you can expect the gambling operator to do all they reasonably can to prevent you from gambling.</li><li>SENSE (Self Enrolment, National Self Exclusion) is the official national self-exclusion scheme covering ALL licensed, land-based casinos in Great Britain. Learn how to do this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/">here</a>.</li><li>Gamban blocks you from over half a million legal and illegal gambling websites and apps. Install the app <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">here</a>.</li></ul><h3>How to make self-exclusion more effective</h3>Self-exclusion helps to break the circuit in recovery, but we always recommend a multi-layered approach for best success. <ul><li>If you have gambling debt, there are organisations that can help. Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/">GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support and support with the criminal justice system available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/">GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord</a> is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li></ul><h3>FAQs</h3>Can I cancel my self-exclusion early?Nope, once you have made the decision to self-exclude, it will last throughout your chosen period. Is self-exclusion permanent? Self-exclusion isn’t permanent but will last the length of time you’ve chosen. Does self-exclusion stop gambling adverts?Nope, but there are steps you can take to minimise the adverts you see. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-limit-gambling-ads-on-social-media-2026">Find out more about this here</a>.Does self-exclusion cover black market gambling?Self-exclusion covers UK licensed operators. To block illegal or unregulated websites, download <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>.What happens if I try to gamble?With a self-exclusion, you won’t be able to enter physical gambling venues and your details won't work when it comes to playing online or using their apps.What's the difference between self-exclusion and Gamban?Self-exclusion blocks you from the operator level, so you won't be able to access physical gambling venues and their associated websites. Gamban is a license which is added to your device, which blocks over half a million legal and illegal gambling websites and apps.

What Is Self-Exclusion?

Self-exclusion can help create distance from gambling. Learn how it works and how to make it more effective.

Tips To Manage Your Money

For many, payday is a positive moment. But if you have been gambling excessively, it can feel complicated. It might mean stronger urges or a potential chance of relapse while you’re trying to quit. This is a totally normal part of recovering from addiction. The best thing is to ensure that when payday comes around, you are prepared, as a plan can help you manage both gambling urges and your income.<h3>Managing Access</h3>Suddenly having an influx of accessible money can be a big trigger. Particularly with casinos and slot machines available on your phone. If you know having access to money is a risk, you need to decide what will happen to your money once it enters your account.Most major banks offer some sort of gambling block, so you won’t be able to make transactions to certain vendors. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-through-your-bank-account-2026">Find out more about this here.</a>Some people have a trusted friend or family member who helps to manage their money. This is made easier with our partner Sibstar, a debit card and app that can be controlled and managed by a dedicated “helper” of your choice, while still allowing you access to the things you need. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gamban-partners-with-sibstar">Find more about this here.</a><h3>Plan Your Spending</h3>If you want to manage your money on your own, having a plan as soon as it hits your account is key.If possible, set all your bills to go out on payday, so you know they are covered, and the money is out of sight straight away.If you have outstanding debt, work out how much you can feasibly pay per month and also ensure this goes out as soon as you've been paid. If you need help with debt, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">visit our debt support page</a>. Be sensible here; don’t suddenly overpay debt if it leaves you with nothing for food or travel, as this can lead to gambling urges later down the line.Make a plan for any remaining money. It’s often easier to segment it into how much you need per week. Moving any remaining money into an account that's harder to access and isn’t linked to a card will make it harder to gamble with.Recovery doesn’t mean every penny has to go towards bills and debt. Make sure you leave money to treat yourself and enjoy life. A plan that is too strict will be hard to maintain.<h3>Managing Your Payday</h3>Even if you are paid monthly, you might be able to request that your employer pays you weekly. This means you will get a steady weekly deposit into your account instead of one lump sum. This can make it easier to manage and plan your spending overall.Consider removing or reducing your overdraft and getting rid of credit cards if you feel you are likely to use them to gamble. If you know you tend to ask others to borrow money, the best thing is to be open and honest and make sure this option is off the table. Only borrow money if you really need it for essential bills.<h3>Managing urges</h3>Urges to gamble can initially feel incredibly strong, but will subside over time. If you have an overwhelming urge to gamble, find an alternative activity that takes up half an hour. Have a timer ready to go for 30 minutes, don’t act on the urge and keep reminding yourself that the feeling will pass. It will usually do so before the timer elapses. This technique is called “urge surfing”.It also helps to install a physical blocker, like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>. Gamban blocks access to over 500,000 sites across all your devices. That bit of friction can be the deciding factor between gambling and not.“Playing the tape” is also a key way of keeping yourself on track. When people think of gambling, they are often only thinking of the immediate outcome. The potential to win money and feel that “high”. However, if you roll the tape all the way, and remember everything negative that happens when you gamble, this stops the “rose-tinted” view of betting.If you struggle with thoughts of gambling on payday, make sure you keep busy to keep your mind off things. Plan something you enjoy with a friend or family member, or offer to do an extra shift so you're not distracted and not fixated on your pay.Aside from payday, think about other times which might be a trigger for you. This could include the first weekend or football match after payday. Arrange something healthy but distracting to switch up your routine and keep your mind away from gambling.If you need to speak to someone, call<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/"> Gamcare</a> on 0808 8020 133 for free and confidential advice and support.<h3>Financial goals</h3>It can be helpful to set achievable financial goals each payday. For example, you may want to go on a trip you've always planned, buy a car, or put a deposit down on a house. Make sure it's not so big that it feels miles away. You can always start small and build over time. Having that financial goal in mind gives you something to focus on, which brings you joy and happiness that aren't tied to gambling.  If you have been free from gambling for a while, you may start to get complacent, and this is when old habits can creep back in. No matter how long it's been since you gambled, make sure you keep up with the payday routine, gambling blocking, GA meetings and whatever else you use to stay on track.<h3>Payday Checklist</h3><ol><li>Set all bills to come out when you're paid.</li><li>If you have <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">outstanding debt</a>, plan how much you can pay off each month and set up a direct debit.</li><li>Choose a trusted person to either help manage your money or someone you can talk to when you feel urges.</li><li>Make sure <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-through-your-bank-account-2026">bank blocking</a> is set up.</li><li>Install Gamban to block access to over 500,000 gambling sites and apps.</li><li>Join our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.com/invite/mYJYCEN2ch">Gamban Discord</a> for a place to speak openly with others who relate.</li><li>Think about how you have managed urges before, what works and what doesn't? Having a mental tool kit is key. </li><li>Set an achievable financial goal to work towards.</li><li>What are you doing on payday which can help to distract you?</li></ol><h3>Other Helpful Resources</h3><ul><li>If you have gambling debt, there are organisations that can help. Find out more<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt"> here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/"> here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/"> here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/"> GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support and support with the criminal justice system available at<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/"> GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li></ul>

Payday Routine In Gambling Addiction Recovery

Create a payday routine to manage gambling urges, protect your money and stay on track in gambling addiction recovery.

Tips from someone with lived experience

Dan Bullen gambled for over 20 years, letting the losses, the lies, and the shame control his life Now in recovery, he hosts <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedRecovery">the Addicted Recovery Show</a>,  a YouTube channel focused on honest conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, relapse, and life after stopping.Dan speaks with people who have lived experience, athletes, advocates, authors, and professionals working in addiction and recovery.Today, we talk to Dan about how to stop betting.How to stop gambling is a question I get asked all the time.The truth is, everyone's focused on trying not to want to gamble instead of focusing on making gambling harder.So put some friction between you and that first bet.The saying I like is: if you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got.Try something different. Do something different. Don't do things that trigger you.If you gamble on your phone, install a blocker like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/">Gamban</a>.If you gamble on live sports, you're going to have to not watch live sports for a while.If watching gambling streamers triggers you, stop watching gambling streamers.You've got to do something different.And the second thing I advise is: tell someone.Addiction thrives in secrecy. Recovery grows with accountability.Tell somebody. Tell a partner, a loved one, a friend, someone from a support group. Tell someone what's going on. Tell them about your struggles, and they can help hold you accountable.Remember, you can't always control the urge to gamble, but you can make gambling harder.

How To Stop Betting

Dan Bullen shares practical advice on how to stop gambling, manage triggers and make betting harder.

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