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.

A New Way To Add Financial Safeguards

We are pleased to announce our partnership with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sibstar.co.uk/quitgambling">Sibstar</a>, a flexible debit card and app designed to help adults manage everyday spending safely.<h3>What is Sibstar?</h3>Sibstar was originally created to support families affected by dementia, but its flexible controls also make it ideal for people in recovery.Sibstar gives people more control over when and where money can be spent. It can be used independently or with the support of a trusted person, making it a useful tool for people in recovery who want extra structure around their finances.<h3>How Sibstar can support gambling recovery</h3>For someone recovering from gambling harm, access to money can be complicated. Everyday spending needs to continue, but being able to add a layer of protection can be extremely helpful. With Sibstar, users can:<ul><li>Set daily and monthly spending limits</li><li>Set cashpoint withdrawal limits</li><li>Switch cashpoint withdrawals, contactless payments, online payments, and phone payments on or off</li><li>Receive real-time notifications when the card is used</li><li>Freeze or unfreeze the card instantly through the app</li><li>Invite a trusted supporter to help manage the account, where appropriate</li></ul>Plus, gambling payments are automatically blocked.<h3>Financial Support</h3>Sibstar gives people the option to build a safer financial environment around themselves. For some, that might mean managing the card and app independently. For others, it might mean having the card while a trusted loved one provides support via the app. <h3>How can I get Sibstar?</h3>Anyone can apply for a Sibstar debit card and app. Customers can download the Sibstar app from the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/sibstar/id1603415469">App Store</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sibstar.app&amp;hl=en_GB">Google Play</a>, choose the relevant account type, complete their details, provide the required documents, and receive their Sibstar card in the post.Once activated, money can be added, and the card settings can be managed through the app.<h3>Layered Protection</h3>There is no single tool that solves gambling addiction on its own, which is why we always recommend layering tools for the best chance of recovery. <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>

Gamban partners with Sibstar

Gamban partners with Sibstar to support gambling recovery with flexible spending controls, trusted support and gambling payment blocks.

Tips from someone in recovery

We spoke to Dan, founder of Addicted Recovery, about the best way to help someone who is a compulsive gambler. "How to help a compulsive gambler is something that appears in my comments sections all the time.Basically, partners, parents or siblings who are trying to help somebody who's struggling with a gambling addiction.The honest truth is, if they don't want to stop, there's not much you can do to stop them.Wanting to stop gambling has to come from them. It has to come from within.That was the turning point for me back in 2021, when I placed my last bet. I realised I didn't want to live this chaotic lifestyle anymore.I can't do this for my kids. I can't do this for my wife. I can't do this for my mum.I needed to do this for me. As a friend or family member, the best thing you can do to help them get to that point is to support them. Let them know you're there, you love them, and you want to try and help.The reason having accountability from friends, loved ones and family members is so important is that you can help them once they get on that journey.Installing blockers on your phone can help. You can set up a blocker with them by installing it on their device with their permission.I did this with my brother early on in my recovery. My brother installed <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a> on my phone, and then I was unable to remove it.Basically, Gamban blocked all gambling apps and gambling websites.I couldn't access anything on my phone, no matter how much I wanted to.And that helped me early in recovery.Now I'm at a point where I can control my urges. I don't need to act on those urges, but early on in recovery, that really helped.Just being there for them, letting them know that you care and you're there for them, is so important.The love and support of my family have helped me get to where I am today."<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZFvU_BCSw-/">Watch the full video here. </a>

How To Help A Compulsive Gambler

Support a loved one struggling with gambling addiction with advice from Dan, founder of Addicted Recovery.

Support Guide

How can I uninstall Gamban? Once Gamban is installed on your devices, we will not remove it until your subscription ends. We understand this can be difficult for many people, which is why we have curated resources in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/help">Gamban app to help support you.</a> For extra protection, we always recommend using Gamban alongside other tools, like self-exclusion and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-through-your-bank-account-2026">bank blocking.</a> You can also join our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">Gamban Discord</a> if you’d like to talk to others who understand what you’re going through.Find out more in our video below:<figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/BXstOWF13kU"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BXstOWF13kU" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div></figure>

How To Uninstall Gamban

Find out why Gamban can’t be removed early, when protection ends, and where to access support.

Thousands of dogs disappear from tracks every year, but where are they now?

Over 600 greyhounds have fallen during races in England this year alone. This is why Gamban are continuing to campaign for an end to greyhound racing in the UK. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.greyhoundwatch.org.uk/">Greyhound Watch</a> has been created as a partnership between UK campaign organisations, Animal Aid and Shut Down Campaigns.Thanks to the dedicated work of 30+ volunteer race monitors, they have identified over 2,000 greyhounds who have raced this year but not been seen for over a month since their last race and not reported as adopted or otherwise ‘retired’ from racing. It poses the question, where are these dogs now?<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/357257a8-5124-4a31-9872-be94c6a9f286.png" />Screenshot from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.greyhoundwatch.org.uk/">Greyhound Watch. </a>There are only 16 operating tracks left in England as of May 2026, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.greyhoundwatch.org.uk/">Greyhound Watch </a>reveals that each one has a very dark practice of hurting dogs with dangerous races and discarding them from the industry at an alarming rate.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.greyhoundwatch.org.uk/">Greyhound Watch</a> also allows viewers to see actual footage of the hundreds of falls that have been documented by volunteer race monitors.One such dog who has been identified through this process is Gothic Icon, who was knocked over during a race at Harlow Greyhound Stadium in January.The replay of the race was, unlike most others, not made available online, and Gothic Icon has not been seen since. He was only 4 years old – where is he now?Recent Falls captured on video:<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/281f76a4-ad80-4a68-aa4f-30b0984ef6c9.png" />Campaign Manager on Dog Racing at Animal Aid, Isobel McNally, says, “Greyhound racing is a barbaric pastime that chews up and spits out dogs at an alarming rate. Greyhound Watch shows evidence of that in a way that has never been seen before. It is time for the government to take notice and take decisive action to ban this horror show once and for all.”Founder of Shut Down Campaigns, Norb Gordon, says, “With more than 30 volunteers, we have worked tirelessly to document falls, injuries, and dogs going missing from this industry already this year. With 1 dog killed on UK tracks roughly every 3 days – 123 in total, in 2024 – we know many of these dogs will have already been killed. This is unacceptable to the public, which is why the industry hides these incidents behind missing race footage and vague ‘retirement’ data. We are calling on the Greyhound Board of Great Britain to release track-specific death and injury data, including the names of the dogs who are killed on and off the tracks”. Gamban is proud to be a part of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/why-gamban-has-joined-the-campaign-to-end-greyhound-racing">Greyhound Freedom UK coalition</a> that is calling for an end to greyhound racing.

Introducing Greyhound Watch

Introducing Greyhound Watch: Tracking missing racing dogs and exposing over 2,000 unexplained disappearances in the UK.

We run through the major UK banks and what services they provide.

Can banks block gambling transactions? Yes! We run through the major UK high street banks and outline what services they provide to their at-risk customers.<h2>What is the Gambling Block?</h2>A gambling block is a feature that allows you to block your bank account or debit card from being used for gambling transactions. Gambling operators are no longer allowed to accept any deposits by credit card. It’s important to know that enabling a gambling block through your bank does not impact your credit score and would not affect any future lending decisions.<h3>Which banks offer Gambling Blocking Services?</h3><h4>Royal Bank of Scotland </h4>Gambling control is a feature that allows you to block your card from being used for gambling transactions.  Find out more about this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rbs.co.uk/support-centre/banking-from-home/how-to-use-the-mobile-app/what-is-the-gambling-control-feature.html">here</a>. A customer can also do this by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rbs.co.uk/support-centre/contact-us.html">calling</a> on 0345 724 2424 or visiting a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rbs.co.uk/search-results/locator.html">branch</a>. You can also use their chat service <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rbs.co.uk/support-centre/cora.html">CORA</a> and through either of these channels, the team can apply this for you.If a customer mentions that they are concerned about their gambling and asks for help, they have steps in place to offer added support. Learn more about the Royal Bank of Scotland's gambling support <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rbs.co.uk/life-moments/Struggling-financially/manage-your-gambling.html">here</a>. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/428b8190-1909-46b7-baa8-1aef3b25a264.png" /><h4>Lloyds Bank</h4>If you have a debit or credit card, you can use the mobile banking app to turn on a gambling freeze. This instantly blocks payments to gambling retailers. Find out more about that <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.lloydsbank.com/help-guidance/support-and-wellbeing/help-with-gambling.html">here</a>.For customers who don’t have access to a smartphone, gambling transactions can still be blocked without using the app. You can request support by contacting the team by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.lloydsbank.com/help-guidance/call-us.html">phone</a> on 0345 300 0000, and they can help put the block in place on your behalf, or guide you through managing this via desktop banking, where applicable.If a customer prefers not to manage this themselves, you can also ask Lloyds to apply or keep the block in place.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/8fd683bb-c2d0-4687-aa4b-51bf91d21a45.png" /> <h4>Halifax</h4>If you have a debit or credit card, you can use the mobile banking app to turn on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.halifax.co.uk/helpcentre/support-and-wellbeing/help-with-gambling.html">gambling freeze.</a> This instantly blocks payments to gambling retailers.However, if you want to remove the freeze, it will take 48 hours for the removal to take effect.For customers who don’t have access to a smartphone, gambling transactions can still be blocked without using the app. You can request support by contacting the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.halifax.co.uk/helpcentre/call-us.html#:~:text=Account%20queries,and%20closed%20on%20bank%20holidays.">team by phone</a> on 0345 720 3040, and they can help put the block in place on your behalf.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/63d7623d-6aba-43c4-bf42-b09ca6e2afa8.png" /><h4>Bank of Scotland </h4>Freeze specific transactions such as gambling through their app, learn more about this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bankofscotland.co.uk/helpcentre/everyday-banking/card-and-pin-services/card-freezes.html">here</a>. If you do not have the mobile app, you can call 0345 721 3141 to arrange the gambling freeze. The team are opened 8 am-6 pm, 7 days a week. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/fdb87985-9560-42c7-a14b-da6b2acd52fb.png" /><h4>mbna</h4>You can freeze your gambling payments using the MBNA Mobile App. This will instantly block payments to gambling retailers. Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.mbna.co.uk/support/gambling.html">here</a>. If you do not have access to a smartphone, give the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.mbna.co.uk/support/call-us.html">team a call </a>on 0345 606 2062 and they can help you set this up manually. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/06a70713-5d8b-4e60-a90a-9d6f851ce048.png" /><h4>HSBC</h4>All customers can put a gambling restriction on their account by:- Calling the team on 03457 404 404 Monday to Sunday 8am till 8pm. - Popping into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hsbc.co.uk/branch-finder/">branch</a> with valid ID.- Using the mobile app, find steps to do so <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hsbc.co.uk/help/card-support/gambling-restrictions/">here</a>. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/c492fb87-4459-4f1a-a0b7-ec74403cd570.png" /><h4>Monzo</h4>Allows customers to block gambling transactions on their Monzo account, straight from the app. If you don’t have access to your phone, you can reach out to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://monzo.com/help/app-help/contacting-support">customer care team</a> via email (<a href="mailto:help@monzo.com">help@monzo.com</a>) or phone (0800 802 1281.)To turn off the block, customers will need to talk to Monzo's customer support team. They'll ask questions to see whether their situation has changed since they first switched on the restrictions. Find out more and talk to one of the team <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://monzo.com/gambling-block">here</a>. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/8f69b7d9-b634-4aca-956a-f4f1e310aa8b.png" /><h4>Starling Bank</h4>Allows customers to easily block online payments, including gambling transactions, in their banking app. Learn more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://help.starlingbank.com/business/topics/debit-card-queries/how-do-i-block-gambling-payments/">here</a>. Customers can also set up the Starling gambling block even without the app by contacting their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.starlingbank.com/contact/">customer support</a> on 020 7930 4450. The block works by stopping card payments to recognised gambling merchants.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/ac988775-6f8f-4460-9213-61bd63aca6df.png" /><h4>Natwest </h4>Offers customers a card locking feature, which includes a gambling <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.natwest.com/life-moments/Struggling-financially/managing-your-gambling.html">transactions blocker</a>, within the banking app. At the moment, the gambling block is something customers need to set up themselves through the NatWest mobile app, so access to the app is required to use that feature.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/c73faee3-4c8b-41ab-ae3d-51fc6a2278a6.png" /><h4>Barclays </h4>You can block transactions to gambling retailers by following these <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.barclays.co.uk/money-worries/gambling-support/">steps</a>. Merchant controls can also be adjusted over the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.barclays.co.uk/help/contact-us/">phone</a> on 0345 734 5345 and in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.barclays.co.uk/branch-finder/">branch</a> if customers don't use the app.If you feel comfortable, the Barclays team can work with you to see how they can help. Anything you say is confidential, and they won’t use any of the information you give without your permission.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/1b84c5f5-a922-4fe2-b513-a8c7a542012a.png" /><h4>Santander</h4>If you have a Santander debit Mastercard, you can block gambling transactions in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.santander.co.uk/personal/support/help-with-managing-my-money/gambling-help">Mobile Banking app.</a> If you don’t have access to the app, call the team on 0330 123 0209.Santander also offers help for those who are struggling with their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.santander.co.uk/personal/support/if-finances-are-a-struggle">finances. </a><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/d3e50661-ecc3-45f4-8bb0-7cc60c332d27.png" /><h4>Danske Bank</h4>Danske Bank have an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://danskebank.co.uk/personal/help/payments/block-gambling-payments">optional gambling freeze</a> or limit for your debit card. They also have a range of tools that may help you make changes to reduce the harm gambling causes. If customers don't use the eBanking platform, they can call into any <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://danskebank.co.uk/personal/search">branch</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://danskebank.co.uk/personal/help/useful-numbers#:~:text=For%20all%20general%20Danske%20Bank,please%20use%20the%20sections%20below.">call the contact centre</a> on 0345 600 2882 and the team can put the block in place.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/ff5fcefc-1be8-4696-81ad-685cf78963f5.png" /><h3>Sibstar</h3>Sibstar is a card and app for adults who need help managing their everyday spending.With Sibstar, you can make sure: <ul><li>Gambling payments are automatically blocked.</li><li>Set daily &amp; monthly spending limits.</li><li>Invite a supporter to help you stay on track.</li></ul>Find out more and sign up <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sibstar.co.uk/quitgambling">here</a>. Contact the customer service team on 01962 676 080. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/aa29c29e-4dd9-4cad-81d3-86c8c21a2064.png" /><h3>Nationwide </h3>If you’d like to stop your debit card from being used for most gambling payments, you can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nationwide.co.uk/help/challenging-times/gambling-support/#contactus">call</a> on 0345 730 2011, visit the team in a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nationwide.co.uk/branches/search">branch</a>, or turn on the gambling block in the app:<ol><li>Log in to the app and select your account.</li><li>Choose Manage cards.</li><li>Choose Gambling.</li><li>Turn the gambling block on.</li></ol>Or on the internet bank:<ol><li>Log in to our internet bank and select your account.</li><li>Choose More options.</li><li>Choose Set up gambling controls.</li><li>Turn the gambling block on.</li><li>Select Confirm.</li></ol>If you're worried about how much you’re spending on gambling or if you’re struggling to make your payments, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nationwide.co.uk/help/challenging-times/gambling-support/#contactus">get in touch with the Nationwide team</a> so they can talk through your options. They can also help if you have a joint account and want some support because of problem gambling.<img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/6a2d206b-c68b-4bf7-bd82-682fe1460263.png" /><h3>Revolut</h3>The gambling block is a feature of the Revolut app that, when enabled, will block card payments that are identified as gambling. This can include payments to bookmakers, online casinos, and sports betting apps. When you open a Revolut account, it is disabled by default. To enable it:<ol><li>Tap your profile icon (your profile pic or initials) in the top left corner</li><li>Tap 'Security'</li><li>Tap 'Payments'</li><li>Turn 'Gambling block' on or off</li><li>Tap 'Yes' to confirm</li></ol>For more support, call the team on +442033228352.Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://help.revolut.com/help/profile-and-plan/security-and-personal-data/gambling-block/what-is-gambling-block/">here</a>. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/f02cd75d-3f27-445f-bf6f-f8336adff738.png" />What else should I put in place? If you are trying to quit gambling, we recommend putting as many blocks in place as possible to give you a better chance of abstaining. That means layering <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">gambling blocking software</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">self-exclusion from online gambling</a>, and bank transaction blocks.  Reach out to a trained adviser on the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/"> National Gambling Helpline</a> for free, confidential guidance and advice.

Block Gambling Through Your Bank Account 2026

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