This is an opportunity for individuals to utilise a scheme that should enable them to stop gambling for a set period of time. This can vary from six months to a few years.
This scheme is for individuals who may be concerned about the amount of time and money they are spending gambling.
All gambling providers in England should provide their customers with an option to do so. If companies allow you to gamble in licensed premises i.e. bookmakers, bingo and casinos, they should be part of a multi-operator self-exclusion scheme. This means you are able to make a single request to self-exclude.
These schemes tend to ask you for proof identity and close your account and return any money. Additionally, you should be removed from their marketing databases. You should not be able to leave the scheme before the exclusion period has ended. When you join up to the scheme you, it is down to you to exercise the self-exclusion agreement. If however, you do gamble then the operator should take reasonable steps to prevent you from continuing to gamble.
We wanted to draw your attention to GAMSTOP. Considering the current situation we feel as though this is useful scheme for those of you who may be spending considerable amounts of time and money gambling online. GAMSTOP is multi-operator self-exclusion facility that has been developed for online gambling operators.
Please watch the link below for further information:
At RecoverMe, we understand the importance of placing physical barriers in place to reduce the likelihood of you gambling.
A Review of Self-exclusion from Gambling Venues as an Intervention for Problem Gambling by Sally M. Gainsbury explored the benefits of utilising such schemes and we wanted to share this with you.
Reduction in gambling behaviour
Reducing in problem gambling severity
Improved psychological functioning
improved perceptions of control over gambling behaviour
The research also highlighted improvements that may be necessary to better manage a gambling addiction. These include providing additional resources to control their gambling with appropriate information, education resources and referrals to management options. Not all individuals may require this, but offering it to them would be a necessary step in providing an improved approach. This research paper specifically highlighted internet-based treatment and self-help interventions.
Download RecoverMe to manage your gambling addiction from your pocket. We talk about other organisations that can also help manage your gambling addiction within the support tab.
What help is available?
Gamblers Anonymous UK runs support groups that use the same 12-step approach to recovery from addiction as Alcoholics Anonymous. Help available via a Forum, Chat Room, Literature and of course most importantly a meeting finder. Meetings are available online.
GamCare offers free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers in the UK. It runs the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and offers live-chat options that are also available 24 hours a day.
NHS Problem Gambling Clinics For individuals aged 16 or over, living in England or Wales, and have complex problems related to gambling; you can refer yourself to specialist NHS clinics. Contact the National Clinic based in South-West London at gambling.cnwl@nhs.net, providing a contact number or 020 7381 7722, leaving a contact number. The Northern NHS Gambling Clinic can be contacted by e-mail at referral.ngs@nhs.net providing a contact number, a call on 0300 3001490, or a service contact form.
Gordon Moody Association offers residential courses – email help@gordonmoody.org.uk or call 01384 241292 to find out more. It also runs the Gambling Therapy website, which offers online support to problem gamblers and their friends and family.
GamAnon A great place to get some immediate advice and support if you are affected by a gambling problem in your family.
Samaritans To help with whatever you are going through, call for free on 116 123.
Childline Help for those up to the age of 18, call for free on 0800 1111 or chat online