“I started gambling at 16 and lost £20k by 20”

<p>My name is Matt Zarb-Cousin. I’m a co-founder of Gamban and now a director focused on external affairs.</p><p>My introduction to Gamban actually started with a cold message on LinkedIn. A young man called Jack Symons got in touch and said he thought he’d worked out a way to block gambling on Mac devices, which was very difficult to do at the time. </p><p>I was in recovery from addiction myself at the time, so the idea immediately interested me.</p><p>We met in a pub in Farringdon, and Jack showed me an early prototype. </p><p>This is my story. </p><h3>Matts Story</h3><p>Gambling addiction nearly destroyed my life. There is no other addiction where the person affected believes that by continuing to engage in the activity they’re addicted to, it can solve all the problems that the addiction has created.</p><p>My story begins at age 16, when I fell victim to Fixed Odds Betting Terminals. By the time I reached 20, my debts soared to £20,000, and I reached a point of desperation and despair. </p><p>I really wanted to take my own life. It's difficult to explain, but looking back, I don’t think it was about the money. It was about where the addiction had led me to. All of the things that had happened, the things that I'd missed out on. Gambling had distracted me from my life for so long. </p><p>The distraction of the gambling addiction helped me escape from the depression caused by its consequences. I could pretend I was normal, I was fine, and that there was nothing wrong with me while I was gambling. But one particular gambling session in 2009 that spanned several hours and resulted in losses of £2,500 led me to the point of wanting to take my own life.</p><p>Thankfully, my parents intervened before it got to that point, and I was able to receive support and cognitive behavioural therapy, which helped me to eventually quit gambling on my 20th birthday after several relapses. However, years later, I still take medication for my mental health conditions, which I firmly believe were caused by the gambling addiction.</p><p>I was so affected by my gambling addiction and the impact on my mental health that I wanted to do something to help others who might be in a similar situation.</p><p>The paradox of this, 15 years on, is that I am now in the privileged position of being able to say that I am actually glad it happened. In the years after quitting, I campaigned for a £2 stake limit on fixed odds betting terminals and in the course of doing so, I spoke publicly in the media countless times about my addiction and the impact these machines had on my life.</p><p>I was so pleased that the campaign to reduce the stake to £2 on FOBTs was successful, and that government policy is now much more reflective of the impact similar online products can have on rates of gambling harm.</p><p>I am also privileged to work with a fantastic team at Gamban. Over the past decade, we’ve gradually expanded the product's reach and the team, and the app has now surpassed 1 million downloads. </p><p>My personal mission is to help as many people who want to quit gambling as possible, whether that’s through technological solutions or policy changes. </p>

Matt Zarb-Cousin | Co-Founder Story

Matt Zarb-Cousin shares his personal journey from gambling addiction and £20,000 in debt to recovery, campaigning for safer gambling laws, and co-founding Gamban to help others quit gambling.

A hard conversation now could really help their future.

<p>Talking to someone about a possible gambling addiction is always going to feel like a difficult conversation. If you’re a friend or family member, the fear of upsetting the person or putting strain on the relationship can deter you from asking uncomfortable questions. But the truth is, a hard conversation now could really help their future and show them they are not alone. </p><h3>How to know if someone has a gambling addiction? </h3><p>Some people hide a gambling addiction from the closest people in their lives for years. The rise of online casinos and slots means that someone could be gambling anywhere at any time, and on the most addictive content, in complete secrecy. Never blame yourself for not seeing someone's addiction. It can be so easy to hide and cover up. The key is to understand the best way to help. </p><h4>Signs someone may have a gambling addiction </h4><ul><li>Their finances seem sporadic, sometimes having a lot of money, and other times being stressed about their finances. Perhaps even asking to borrow money soon after payday</li><li>Being protective and secretive over their phone</li><li>Being unable to cover major living expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments</li><li>Hiding or being secretive about their bank statements</li><li>Poor performance at work or school</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><p>Of course, none of these symptoms is definitive of a gambling addiction, but if you notice your loved one experiencing some or all of these, it may be a sign. </p><h3>How to talk to a loved one about gambling addiction</h3><p>Every person is different, but the key here is to be calm, direct and make sure the person doesn’t feel ambushed or blamed. Suffering gambling harm is hard enough, and there is so much guilt and shame around it that a conversation can trigger some intense feelings. </p><p>Approach the person in private when there is plenty of time to have a chat. Don’t time it before any big or stressful events, as this could leave the person feeling overwhelmed and unable to provide the mental bandwidth needed to be transparent with you. </p><p>Reassure the person that your love is unconditional, and you will still continue to support them. Encourage them to be completely open and honest by being non-judgmental.  Although it can be a challenge, responding calmly and with empathy can make a huge difference. You may feel shocked and upset by what they say, but try to be neutral to the best of your ability. </p><p>It’s okay to not work everything out in the first conversation. Just knowing that you are there for the person is enough.</p><p>If you need to talk seriously about finances, perhaps schedule this for another good time when emotions have calmed down, and you can talk more logistically. It will likely be an intense but relieving conversation for both. </p><p>You may end up hitting a wall with the person, where they don’t want to talk. In this event, you need to give them reassurance and time, then bring it up a little later down the line. You may find that they end up opening up in the meantime anyway. </p><h2>The practical side</h2><p>Aside from having someone there for emotional support, there are multiple ways you can offer practical support to a loved one. Going through these and offering to help can be a huge weight off the person's shoulders and help them get moving into recovery. </p><ul><li>Gambling debt can feel overwhelming and scary, but there are organisations that can help. Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt"><u>here</u></a>.</li><li>Block access to online gambling, both licensed and unlicensed, with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</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"><u>here</u></a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com"><u>here</u></a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk"><u>GamFam</u></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"><u>GamLEARN</u></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"><u>The Gamban Discord </u></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>Encourage them to listen to podcasts and videos from others who have recovered. This can be a source of inspiration.</li></ul><p>You certainly don’t need to tackle each one at once, but supporting them through each step gradually is a huge step towards recovery. </p><p>Recovering from any addiction is a journey which isn’t linear. You’ll find the person has good and bad days, but having someone in their corner is invaluable. </p>

How To Talk To Someone About Their Gambling

Learn how to spot the signs of a gambling addiction and start a supportive, honest conversation with a loved one. Practical advice and help for families and friends.

What research says about neurodiversity and gambling behaviour

<p>The topic of ADHD has exploded into the news in the last few years. This huge surge in public awareness and increased recognition of symptoms means more people than ever are being diagnosed. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mi-adhd/may-2025"><u>In May 2025,</u></a> it is estimated that 2,498,000 people in England have ADHD, including those without a diagnosis. </p><h3>What is ADHD?</h3><p>There are 3 main types of ADHD</p><ul><li>Hyperactive and impulsive type ADHD</li><li>Inattentive type ADHD</li><li>Combined type ADHD: Characterised by inattention and distractibility, as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity</li></ul><p>ADHD in women, in particular, can be more subtle and harder to recognise, making it more likely they get diagnosed later on in life. </p><p>This has led to many people with a late diagnosis feeling that they’ve lost out on valuable support and understanding in their formative years. </p><h3>The Link Between ADHD and Gambling</h3><p>The ADHD brain is deficient in dopamine, the brain’s reward centre. This means everyday activities can feel flat, leading to a need for more intense stimulation. This can lead some people to seek out high-stimulation activities such as drinking, drugs and gambling.</p><p>Anyone can get addicted to gambling, but those with ADHD can be particularly vulnerable. </p><p>The impulsivity that comes with ADHD can make it harder to stop and think things through. Gambling, especially with slots that push you to move quickly, already relies on the user acting without thinking. </p><p>While anyone could get addicted to gambling, those with ADHD are more prone to struggle with delayed gratification and control. This leads to seeking activities that provide immediate stimulation and offer the potential for high rewards from high risk, such as gambling.</p><p>Understanding your ADHD is one of the best ways to manage it, and a late diagnosis may mean you previously relied on coping strategies that were not right for you.</p><h3>Managing ADHD</h3><p>Although those with ADHD can be more vulnerable to gambling addiction, there are plenty of steps you can take to support yourself or someone else:</p><ul><li>Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps you identify triggers and negative patterns so you can develop healthy coping mechanisms. This will help you manage addictive urges. </li><li>Medication isn’t for everyone, but if it works for you, ADHD meds can help to stabilise dopamine in the brain, which lowers the temptation to seek instant gratification. </li><li>Seeking positive, high-dopamine activities, such as sports or music. This will leave you feeling fulfilled without the risk and is especially helpful for those with ADHD.</li><li>Download <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps"><u>Gamban</u></a> to remove gambling temptation from your devices. This will block both legal and illegal gambling sites.</li><li>If you’re struggling to manage finances, giving up control to a trusted <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-an-accountability-partner-can-help-you-in-recovery"><u>accountability partner </u></a>can help you with structure and debt control. </li><li>Talking to others in the same situation can be hugely helpful, through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/"><u>Gamcare</u></a> or anonymous sources like our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch"><u>Gamban Discord Hub. </u></a></li></ul><p>The key is to break things down into small, achievable steps rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Making progress on just one of the steps above is an amazing move in the right direction.  </p>

Is There A Link Between ADHD And Gambling?

Rising ADHD diagnoses are highlighting a growing link with gambling risk. Explore why ADHD can increase vulnerability, the science behind impulsivity and dopamine, and practical ways to stay in control.

Why did we make that change?

<p>Privacy is something we take very seriously. The nature of Gamban means requesting as little customer data as possible at sign up, and that data only being held for as long as is necessary. Our apps have never had any tracking or analytics capabilities, but to further safeguard user data on our website, we have recently replaced Google Analytics with Plausible.</p><h3>Why do we use analytics? </h3><p>Analytics is important for measuring and improving our service. Things like page views at various parts of a user journey help us to understand more about our users’ needs, so we can make changes accordingly. </p><h3>Why did we make that change?</h3><p>Your privacy matters, and we believe Google Analytics has become too intrusive, doubling down on tracking and following users across all of their browsing activity.</p><p>Plausible doesn't use cookies, build profiles, store personal data or follow you around the internet.  </p><p>It also means Gamban is one less website where you have to accept or reject the cookie notice.</p><p>Plausible is also lighter and faster, so pages load more efficiently, resulting in a better user experience. </p><p>We limit the information shared with third parties to an absolute minimum. In past years, we moved our email marketing and sales metrics to a completely in-house solution.</p><p>We also recently moved our support ticketing system in-house, and access to that data is only possible through our internal network with strict controls. This leaves only our payment processors and communication providers as the third parties with whom we share data. </p><p>Our team has also reduced reliance on third-party machine translation services, instead translating customer support queries (when an agent doesn't speak the language) locally using privacy-preserving translation software.</p><p>This change means stronger privacy, faster performance and a better experience for everyone.</p><h3>What information do you need to sign up for Gamban?</h3><p>We will need an email address to get you started. Your email is used so we can contact you about your account if needed, but you don’t need email verification to access Gamban.</p><p>If you prefer, you can use a temporary email address to create the account.</p><p>You’ll also be asked for your name, but this doesn’t have to be your real name.</p><p>There’s no advertising, marketing, tracking, or behaviour-based profiling going on in the background. Access to personal data is tightly limited internally, managing access entry points accordingly. We don’t use cross-site tracking or third-party trackers on the app. </p><p>Signing up to Gamban can sometimes feel like a hard step, so we want to make it as easy and anonymous as we can. </p><p>Learn more on our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/privacy"><u>privacy</u></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/privacy/cookies"><u>cookie policy</u></a> here.</p>

Gamban Make The Move From Google Analytics To Plausible

Gamban puts privacy first. Learn why we replaced Google Analytics with Plausible, how little data we collect, and how we keep your experience private and fast.

A place for anyone affected by gambling harm to get together

<p><a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch" role="button"><strong>Join the Discord today!</strong></a></p><p>We are really excited to announce the launch of our new Gamban Discord Hub, in partnership with the esports team ECSTATIC.</p><p>ECSTATIC is a Danish esports organisation founded in 2018 that competes in Counter-Strike 2. Gambling logos dominate the scene, with more than 80% of the top 50 CS2 teams sponsored by casinos or betting companies. ECSTATIC want to make a stand and change that.</p><p>Recovering from addiction can feel really isolating, especially if you have to stop seeing people and doing things you usually would to avoid triggers. It can be hard to fill the time usually spent gambling, especially in the early stages.</p><p>This is why we have created the Gamban Hub, a place for anyone affected by gambling harm to get together, chat,  game, socialise, or just read what others have to say.</p><p>The Hub meets people where they already are. Not everyone relates to formal support groups, so having something already in Discord makes it easy and accessible. </p><h3>Gambling in esports and gaming</h3><p>There’s a huge overlap between Esports and gambling. Betting on matches, skin gambling, third-party sites and crypto-style wagering is common. A lot of this activity happens on lightly regulated or completely unregulated platforms.</p><p>This exposes younger players and fans who are active in these spaces to gambling harm. The support options aimed specifically at this crowd are still limited, so a Discord support hub helps fill the gap.</p><p>Many gaming and esports fans already use Discord every day. The idea is simple. Meet them where they are, and make it easier to talk about gambling harm in a setting that does not feel formal or clinical. An open community where people can talk, ask questions, and hear from others who have been through similar things.</p><h3>What happens inside Gamban Hub</h3><p>We have multiple channels on the server, so if users want to discuss their recovery stories, struggles, gaming, or just a general chat, there is plenty of space to get involved.</p><p>Here are a few examples of what you can expect:</p><ul><li>General |  Chat about your day, how you’re feeling and anything in between.</li><li>My Story | Sharing your story can be really empowering. Connect with other like-minded people and give and receive advice.</li><li>Forum | Start a new topic thread.</li><li>Gaming | Chat about games, play together or just have it on in the background.</li><li>Events | We’ll also be hosting live events with ECSTATIC, Gamban, and leading experts in gambling addiction.</li></ul><p>There is also a list of localised resources for those who need them. </p><h3>What it is not</h3><p>The Gamban Hub is not a place for therapy, counciling or financial advice. Anyone who needs these will be pointed towards experts who can help. </p><h3>How it is moderated</h3><p>We have selected several moderators who are passionate about supporting people experiencing gambling harm. They will be on hand to ensure users follow the rules and remove anyone with bad intent. </p><h3>Why have we partnered with ECSTATIC?</h3><p>We know that there’s a link between esports and gambling harm, and for many, gambling has become a normal part of being a player. Gambling sponsors now account for around <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://esportsinsider.com/betting-brands-esports-sponsor-takeover"><u>25% of esports sponsorship revenue</u></a> and are becoming increasingly normalised in a place where those who see it are young and impressionable. </p><p>This is the first sponsorship in esports/sports focused on harm prevention in gambling, and together we want to create meaningful change. </p><blockquote><p>Oliver Behrensdorff, Co-Owner of Ecstatic said "Gambling used to require a place. Today it requires only a signal. With a phone in your pocket the casino is always within arm’s reach. That level of constant access, and still growing access, has made gambling addiction extremely relentless and more difficult to escape than ever before. On the contrary, support is often nowhere to be found. Most advice is scattered, and for many it starts and ends with searching ‘how to quit gambling’ on YouTube. That’s not real support, but a lonely process in an environment that constantly pushes the opposite behaviour."</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>I wanted to create the Discord server to offer a safe space for people who want to step away from gambling and connect with others who truly understand. From my experience, the most effective path to quitting isn’t just information, it’s community. There are so many people who have successfully quit and want to support others, and just as many who feel they have nobody to talk to or are too ashamed to speak up.</p><p> </p><p>Our hope is that this space can grow into both a supportive community and a reliable resource hub for gambling addiction - and provide crucial help to people who might otherwise have given up."</p></blockquote><h3>How to join</h3><p>Simply click this link and answer a couple of safety questions to join: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch</a></p><h3>Privacy</h3><p>The use of the Gamban hub can be completely anonymous. We never ask for any personal details, and you are free to use a nickname if you’d prefer. We have a no-tolerance policy for bullying and harassment, as well as gambling affiliate links and the in-depth discussion of techniques and winnings. </p><h3>What our team say</h3><p>Jack Symons, Gamban founder, said: <i>“Together with our friends at ECSTATIC, we’re excited to open the Gamban Hub on Discord to everyone. Supported by dedicated volunteers, the Hub is designed as a safe, welcoming space to connect and play. Drawing on over a decade of experience in gambling-blocking at Gamban, we want gaming to remain a harm-free source of enjoyment. For me, the hope is that the Hub brings wholesome community into gaming, helping fill the space that gambling might otherwise occupy. Whether you've struggled with gambling in the past, want to connect with others or want to keep gaming fun, come join us.” </i></p>

Gamban Launches Discord In Partnership With Ecstatic

We are really excited to announce the launch of our new Gamban Discord Hub, in partnership with the esports team ECSTATIC.

“Involving others in my recovery process gave me the added motivation"

<p>Addiction often thrives in secrecy; when no one is around, it's easier to behave in ways you normally wouldn’t. Shame and guilt also play a huge factor in this, and many believe that by hiding problem gambling, you are protecting friends and family.</p><p>In reality, hiding the problem usually makes it worse.</p><p>That is why having an accountability partner can make such a difference.</p><h2>What is an accountability partner? </h2><p>An accountability partner is someone you trust who helps you stay on track with your recovery.</p><p>An accountability partner can help you manage your life and finances. When you know your actions can be seen by a trusted person, it changes the whole dynamic. This creates a much stronger barrier than just willpower or self-exclusion alone. </p><p>Hiding an issue often only makes it worse. Although you may not feel ready to share with everyone in your life, choosing one or two trusted people can be hugely helpful. </p><h2>Who should be my accountability partner? </h2><p>It should be someone you trust with personal details and difficult conversations.</p><p>This could be:</p><ul><li>A partner</li><li>A parent</li><li>A close friend</li><li>A trusted colleague</li><li>A family friend</li></ul><p>Some people choose someone very close to them. Others prefer someone a little outside their circle.</p><p>Whoever it is, you just need to be happy with them helping you manage your life and finances. </p><h2>How can they help?</h2><p>An accountability partner can help you manage your money in a structured and protective way.</p><p>This can include:</p><ul><li>Helping control access to bank accounts</li><li>Restricting available funds</li><li>Pre-planning bills and essential spending</li><li>Using leftover money to pay off debts</li><li>Setting spending limits</li><li>Monitoring unusual transactions</li></ul><p>Some people choose to give their accountability partner full access to their bank account. This means that if you:</p><ul><li>Use a gambling site</li><li>Send money to someone else to gamble for you</li><li>Withdraw cash to gamble in person</li><li>Try to move money around to bypass controls</li></ul><p>They will know immediately.</p><p>They can also help you put more barriers in place, including installing Gamban across all of your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blocking"><u>devices</u></a>, setting up <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-self-exclusions-can-be-effective"><u>self-exclusion</u></a>, and blocking gambling transactions from your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-transactions"><u>bank</u></a>.</p><p>Location apps like Life 360 or Find My will also give your accountability partner access to your whereabouts and you can set up alerts for arrival to certain locations so they can help support you if willpower slips. </p><p>A regular check-in with your accountability partner is key for identifying triggers and discussing progress. Make sure the person you choose is both empathetic and informed, giving you the best chance at recovery working alongside someone firm but fair. </p><h2>Benefits of an accountability partner</h2><p>The first and most obvious, is that an accountability partner will help in case of relapse. Recovery isn’t linear, and having that extra barrier in place on hard days can stop you from going back to old ways.</p><p>You may not feel comfortable speaking to your family or colleagues about gambling addiction, but choosing someone totally non-judgemental as your accountability partner means you can speak openly and honestly. Be up front about challenges and it’ll help you plan more positively for the future. </p><p>If you are in debt, looking at ways to re-build finances can feel overwhelming on your own. Building a plan which you have to stick to helps you regain power and control over your life. </p><p>You may experience external pressures to gamble, be that from advertising or even friends who don’t respect your recovery journey. Having someone there who wants you to succeed gives that extra boost of motivation. </p><h2>A real recovery story</h2><p>In a personal recovery story published on Medium, writer <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://medium.com/new-writers-welcome/the-power-of-the-accountability-contract-800186cdab5b"><u>Jordan Maciel</u></a> describes how accountability changed his recovery from gambling addiction. After years of gambling in secrecy, he explains that once he involved people close to him, relapse became harder because it no longer only affected him. </p><p><i>“Involving others in my recovery process gave me the added motivation, encouragement, and shared responsibility I needed to finally beat my addiction.”</i></p><h2>What the science says</h2><p>Research consistently shows that social support is one of the strongest predictors of sustained behaviour change in addiction recovery.</p><p>Well-known therapists and addiction experts all show the same thing in different ways: people are more likely to change their behaviour when they have support.</p><p>People like Aaron T. Beck, who created cognitive behavioural therapy, and William R. Miller, who developed motivational interviewing, both focus on structured support, working with others, and not doing recovery alone. </p><p>While “an accountability partner” is not a formal medical treatment, the idea fits these same principles. It reduces secrecy, adds structure, creates shared responsibility, and gives emotional and practical support. Instead of fighting addiction in private, recovery becomes something you do with support around you, which gives people a better chance of long-term change.</p><h2>Getting Started</h2><p>Allowing someone so much control over your life as an adult can feel daunting and perhaps like you are moving backwards. However, just picture this short-term arrangement as a strategy in recovery. There will be a time in the future when you feel happy and confident to carry on without an accountability partner.</p><p><strong>Accountability is support, not treatment</strong></p><p>An accountability partner is not a replacement for professional support. It works best when combined with:</p><ul><li>Therapy or counselling</li><li>Structured recovery programmes</li><li>Financial support such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamfin.org/"><u>Gamfin</u></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/announcements/sibstar-partners-with-gamban"><u>Sibstar</u></a></li><li>Peer support groups such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/"><u>GamFam</u></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/"><u>GamLEARN</u></a></li><li>Blocking and exclusion tools</li></ul><p>We always recommend a multi-layered approach to gambling harm recovery, which gives you the best chance for success. </p>

How An Accountability Partner Can Help You In Recovery

Addiction often thrives in secrecy; when no one is around, it's easier to behave in ways you normally would’t. That is why having an accountability partner can make such a difference.

Gamban Founder

<p>Jack founded Gamban in 2015 when struggling with online gambling. He noticed there wasn’t any dependable blocking software available for Mac and wanted to create something which reliably blocks websites and apps, making a positive difference to people’s lives.</p><h3>Jack’s Story</h3><p>At university,  not a day went by that I didn’t gamble online, and on many occasions, I was playing up to 14 hours a day. Online gambling is generally much easier to hide than other forms of offline gambling, so I was able to keep it hidden.</p><p>One night, I hit a jackpot, but to withdraw the money and satisfy the bonus requirements, I had to continue wagering a significant amount of money. Eventually, I was able to withdraw the funds and had more money in my bank account than I had ever had before.</p><p>Once you get a taste for the swings, the high highs, and the low lows, it’s hard to go back. What I was doing was very quickly becoming unaffordable, and before long, I’d lost all the money I had saved.</p><p>I tried to stop so many times, but without success. I realised that what I needed was to put a barrier between myself and gambling because willpower wasn’t enough. I installed parental control software, but quickly found it easy to disable.</p><p>One evening, my father and I were talking about gambling, and I came up with the idea of a light-touch, cross-platform software that blocked access to nothing but gambling. As I was still gambling, I needed this, so I got to work immediately, and Gamban was born.</p><h3>You don't have to hit rock bottom to rebuild</h3><p>In 2017, 888 got a record penalty due to significant failures in their social responsibility and anti-money laundering procedures.​ This caused a media frenzy, and I ended up doing a mini circuit of interviews.</p><p>Newsnight was quick to ask "how much did you lose?" and "did you try to kill yourself?".</p><p>I couldn't pretend I did, so they went with someone else.</p><p>That said, my story has been shared a lot online, and I suppose it's more interesting because I took action when I realised I couldn't stop myself from coming back to online slots and casinos.</p><p>I have no idea how much I lost over the years, nor do I care to find out. The figure is irrelevant.</p><p>What I lost was my value of money and time, and the impact on my mental health.</p><p>I want to offer three platitudes that helped me along the way.</p><ul><li><strong>Recover loudly so others don't suffer silently</strong> - Pithy, but some truth to this. I get a lot of satisfaction knowing people who have heard me on podcasts have sought help.</li><li><strong>You don't have to hit rock bottom to rebuild </strong>- How far into the abyss do you need to go? Is it enough to 'peer into' or do you have to go all the way?</li><li>​<strong>You lost. That's ok. You won't get it back. Leave it in the past. All that matters is the future.</strong> - This involves a degree of self-compassion, but learning the difference between self-compassion, self-forgiveness, and self-indulgence is very important.</li></ul><p>Since the start, Gamban has gone from strength to strength, launching on all major devices in every country, recently celebrating its 10-year<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gamban-celebrates-10th-anniversary"><u> anniversary. </u></a></p><p>If, like Jack, you’re looking for a simple and effective way to block online gambling on your devices, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps"><u>Gamban</u></a> can help.</p>

Jack Symons Story

Jack founded Gamban in 2015 when struggling with online gambling. This is his story.

A Guide to Regaining Financial Control 

<p>Gambling debt can feel like a huge burden, leading to significant financial strain and emotional distress. It’s important to recognise that recovery is possible and that numerous resources and strategies are available to help you regain control. </p><p>This guide provides practical steps and financial management techniques for those struggling with gambling debt. </p><h3>Understanding the Impact of Gambling Debt</h3><p>Gambling harm can lead to debts. It’s common for individuals to borrow money from multiple sources, including credit cards and personal loans. This can lead to a vicious cycle, where money is borrowed to cover losses or fund existing gambling habits. The first step is to assess the severity of your gambling debts. </p><h3>Taking Back Control: Financial Strategies for Debt Management </h3><h3>1. Develop a Realistic Budget</h3><p>A budget helps you understand where your money comes from and where it goes, enabling you to spot areas you can reduce and allocate funds to debt repayment.</p><ul><li>Carefully record all sources of income and outgoings for at least a month to gain a clear picture of your financial flow.</li><li>Differentiate between needs (housing, food, utilities) and wants. Ensure that essential bills are paid first, and then you can look at the rest. </li><li>Once essential expenses are covered, dedicate a significant portion of your remaining income to debt repayment. Aim to pay more than the minimum on credit cards and loans, as minimum payments often prolong the debt cycle.</li></ul><h3>2. Prioritise Debts Effectively</h3><p>Not all debts carry the same level of urgency or consequence. Prioritising debts can help you manage them more efficiently.</p><ul><li>Priority Debts: These are debts with the most serious repercussions if left unpaid, such as mortgage/rent, council tax, utility bills, court fines, and child maintenance. Failure to pay these can lead to loss of home, essential services, or legal action.</li><li>Non-Priority Debts: These typically include credit card debt, personal loans, and store cards. While important, the immediate consequences of missing payments are generally less severe than those of missing priority debt payments.</li></ul><h3>3. Engage with your Bank and Creditors</h3><p>It can feel daunting to contact your bank or creditors, but this can be really helpful. They may be able to offer support and solutions tailored to your situation.</p><ul><li>Contact Your Bank: Your bank may offer gambling transaction blocks that let you prevent payments to gambling companies. They might also be able to set limits on cash machine withdrawals and stop sending you credit offers.</li><li>Speak to Your Creditors: If you are struggling to make repayments, tell your creditors. Many have specialist teams trained to help customers with financial difficulties due to gambling harm. Demonstrating your commitment to addressing the gambling issue can make them more willing to help you establish an affordable payment plan.</li></ul><h3>Breaking the Cycle: Strategies to Stop Gambling</h3><p>Addressing the underlying gambling behaviour helps stop further debts from accumulating. Implementing barriers and seeking support are essential.   </p><h3>Self-exclusion and blocking measures</h3><ul><li>Self-Exclusion Schemes: Formally exclude yourself from online and physical gambling platforms for a specified period (e.g., 6 months to 5 years). Services like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/"><u>GAMSTOP</u></a> (UK) can exclude you from all UK-licensed online gambling companies</li><li>Block Gambling Transactions: Many banks and building societies offer options to block gambling transactions. </li><li>Blocking Software: Install <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps"><u>Gamban</u></a> on all your devices to restrict access to gambling websites and apps. </li></ul><h3>Create Obstacles to Gambling and Spending </h3><p>One way to help change a habit is to put obstacles in your way. Reducing access makes it harder to carry out the action. </p><ol><li>Remove all your credit card info from your devices and accounts, so you have to re-enter it every time.</li><li>Put a picture of a loved one or a phrase in strategic places to remind you of your goal to pay off debt. For example, around your credit card or as your phone's wallpaper. The reminder will force you to pause, at the very least.</li><li>Instead of using a regular credit card, opt for a prepaid credit card. This means more effort because you have to reload the card once the limit is reached.</li><li>Put your credit cards out of reach. Lock them up somewhere, give them to a trusted friend, just get them out of easy access.</li></ol><h3>Seeking Professional Help and Support</h3><p>Recognising that you need help is a sign of strength. Professional support can include guidance, emotional support and practical tools for recovery.</p><p>In many countries, there are organisations that can provide you with free guidance and support in managing your debts. For debt help options, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt"><u>click here.</u></a> </p><h3>Moving On From Gambling Debt </h3><p>Overcoming gambling debt is a challenge, but it can be done. Financial strategies, actively working to stop gambling, and seeking professional and peer support will give you control of your finances and help to rebuild your life. </p><p>Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.</p>

Overcoming Gambling Debt

Overcoming gambling debt is a challenge, but it can be done. Financial strategies, actively working to stop gambling, and seeking professional and peer support will give you control of your finances and help to rebuild your life.

A Short Film On How Gambling Ads And Promotions Cause Harm

<p>Actor and mental health advocate Christopher Eccleston and the Coalition To End Gambling Ads are calling on the Government to end all gambling promotions.</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DSuWmKOiarv/"><u>Watch the full video here.</u></a></p><h3>“I’ve obviously got an issue with it”</h3><p>In the video, Christopher talks openly about his concerns around gambling advertising, especially because many of the TV shows and films he appears in are watched by children.</p><p><i>“My feelings were so strong I’ve obviously got an issue with it, and I’d like to dig into it.”</i></p><p>Gambling adverts are now everywhere. They appear on TV, online, across social media and on sports games. For many people, especially those trying to stop gambling, this constant exposure makes it much harder to stay in control.</p><h3>Annie Ashton and the reality behind “free bets”</h3><p>Christopher meets gambling reform campaigner Annie Ashton, whose husband Luke took his own life in 2021 as a result of a gambling disorder after being repeatedly targeted by gambling advertising.</p><p>Luke first started gambling in 2018 after being drawn in by free-bet offers. He managed to stop in 2019. During furlough, however, gambling companies began targeting him again with offers and promotions.</p><p>Within four months, Luke had taken out loans and hidden his struggles from his family. Gambling companies continued to send him inducements, including one the day before he went missing. Luke died by suicide in April 2021, aged 40.</p><p>Since Luke’s death, Annie has campaigned to stop free bets, bonuses and gambling advertising. She launched Luke’s Law, a petition calling for a ban on free bets, which gained more than 31,000 signatures in six months, forcing a response from the government.</p><h3>How gambling ads are designed to keep people gambling</h3><p>Christopher also visits ethical ad agency Don't Panic, where he speaks to Joel about how gambling advertising works.</p><p>Joel explains that gambling ads often use humour, celebrities and high-quality production to make gambling look fun and harmless. Once someone responds to an advert or offer, they can be pulled into a system designed to keep them gambling for as long as possible.</p><p>People are tracked by algorithms and shown targeted offers across apps, websites and social media, often through constant notifications on their phones.</p><p>Joel compares this to alcohol advertising, where strict rules apply. Alcohol adverts cannot suggest that drinking will make someone more popular, successful or happier. Gambling adverts, however, are still allowed to propagate these notions.</p><h3>Using advertising to tell the truth</h3><p>In the final part of the video, Christopher and Joel discuss creating an advert that copies the look and feel of gambling promotions, but tells the truth about gambling harm, including debt, distress and suicide.</p><p>It shows how powerful advertising can be, and how dangerous it is when it is left unchecked.</p><h3>Why this matters</h3><p>More than one million adults in the UK are affected by gambling problems, and every year hundreds of people die by suicide linked to gambling harm (Gambling Commission, 2023; Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, 2022).</p><p>Research shows that gambling advertising and free-bet offers increase gambling and make harm worse, particularly for people who are already struggling (Wardle et al., 2022; WHO, 2023).</p><h3>What people are saying</h3><p>Since the video was shared, many people have spoken about how gambling adverts have affected them.</p><p>People have commented on how gambling adverts follow them everywhere, even after they have tried to stop gambling. Many talk about how free bets and bonuses pulled them back in at their most vulnerable moments. Others describe how hard it is to watch sports or use social media without being reminded of gambling.</p><p>Some responses come from family members who recognise the patterns Christopher and Annie describe. Others are from people who say they had never thought about gambling advertising this way before, but now see how it encourages people to keep gambling for longer and spend more than they planned.</p><p>What stands out is how often people say the same thing: this feels familiar, and it feels wrong.</p><p>This sentiment reflects what research and lived experience have been saying for years. Gambling advertising does not just inform. It pressures and follows people, especially those already struggling.</p><h3>Watch the video and take action</h3><p>This video calls for real change.</p><p>Watch the full video featuring Christopher Eccleston, Annie Ashton and Don’t Panic, and see the advert they create together.</p><p>You can also write to your MP and urge them to support a ban on gambling advertising, free bets and promotions that push people to gamble beyond their limits.</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cega.org.uk/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnf7LgQEM5-3BmKa6hq9h36bERmO6hE0xTrtK6Et_2ewTKZfZUSHmx87BWgto_aem_GCZNMbqsdrpjcwwN3U5Ocg#write-mp"><u>Write to your MP</u></a></p>

Christopher Eccleston Calls For An End To Gambling Advertising

Christopher Eccleston Calls For An End To Gambling Advertising.

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Jack Symons Story

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Christopher Eccleston Calls For An End To Gambling Advertising

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News & Articles

List of Articles

Matt Zarb-Cousin | Co-Founder Story

How To Talk To Someone About Their Gambling

Is There A Link Between ADHD And Gambling?

Gamban Make The Move From Google Analytics To Plausible

Gamban Launches Discord In Partnership With Ecstatic

How An Accountability Partner Can Help You In Recovery

Jack Symons Story

Overcoming Gambling Debt

Christopher Eccleston Calls For An End To Gambling Advertising

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

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