Online gambling might be a fun activity, and while many people enjoy it responsibly it’s a sad fact that it can become an issue to at least some players. Problem gambling is a very real problem, and those suffering from it need help in order to control it. This is where self-exclusion programs come into play.
Self-exclusion programs are a means for players to block themselves from visiting online casinos and betting sites. Among the best known of these you will find GAMSTOP, the free service available across the UK that helps players control their gambling behaviour. Want to know more about GAMSTOP? Then you’re at the right place, as this blog will detail all about this service and tell you how to use it should you be in need of a self-exclusion tool that provides a national-level solution across all UK-licensed sites like Slingo.
What is Self-Exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a means for players to help themselves should they be suffering from problem gambling. The way it works is very simple - it allows one to block their access to an online casino or betting site. All online casinos are obliged to offer such a service as part of their Responsible Gambling tool kit, as there are times when outright blocking is the only way through which one can resist the temptation of gambling.
Self-exclusion can either be for a set period or permanent, depending on the severity of the individual case. Typically this option can be accessed through either the casino site’s Responsible Gaming tools available in the player account page or by contacting customer support directly. During self-exclusion one won’t be able to deposit any cash to their account, but they’ll still be able to access and withdraw any funds they might have.
This self-exclusion option is either on the basis of an individual casino or the entire network of casinos run by the same operator. However if one requires something more drastic - namely self-exclusion from all licensed casinos - that’s where GAMSTOP comes into play.
What is GAMSTOP?
The self-exclusion process mentioned above, as useful as it is, can get very time consuming, especially if you are registered with multiple online casinos. After all you’ll need to do this individually for each casino or betting site, unless self-exclusion applies to all sites belonging to the same network or operator. The proliferation of online gambling in the UK brought about the need for a national self-exclusion service, which is where GAMSTOP comes into the picture.
GAMSTOP was launched in the UK and Northern Ireland in 2018 through a collaboration between the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme (NOSES) and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). Its aim is simple - to enable players to restrict access in order to support responsible gambling. Do note that being based in the UK GAMSTOP only works right here, meaning GAMSTOP does not apply to offshore sites not regulated by the UKGC.
How GAMSTOP Works
All online gambling sites are obliged to provide access to GAMSTOP to their customers. This is thanks to the UK Gambling Act that covers the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). As such, individuals can self-exclude themselves to all UKGC-licensed online casinos at any time by registering with GAMSTOP. This is how this process works:
1. Register with GAMSTOP
First off, register with GAMSTOP by visiting the site www.gamstop.co.uk and filling the online form. It requires your personal details, including name, date of birth, email address, home address, and mobile phone numbers. This will help the system identify you and your existing and future online gambling accounts.
2. Choose Your Self-Exclusion Period
You can self-exclude with GAMSTOP for a period of 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. During this period you will not be able to log in or register new accounts with UKGC-licensed online gambling sites. Once you’ve decided on your self-exclusion period this will be activated within 24 hours.
3. Automatic Blocking
Once the GAMSTOP self-exclusion starts you will be blocked from gambling websites and apps operating under a UKGC licence. In addition you won’t receive marketing messages or promotional emails from these operators for the duration of your self-exclusion.
4. Seek Additional Support
We’ve already pointed out that GAMSTOP only operates within the UK, meaning you’ll still be able to access offshore online gambling sites. As such, if you really want to strengthen your self-exclusion we recommend using additional blocking tools such as internet filters and bank gambling blocks. You can also get further support from dedicated agencies like Gamblers Anonymous and GamCare.
5. Ending Your Self-Exclusion
While GAMSTOP self-exclusion will remain active until its expiration date, you can actively request a removal from the service. This way you’ll only get access to online gambling sites back once you know you’re ready.
The Importance of Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling is key for safe and fun sessions at your favourite online casino or betting site. After all, it’s all about self control, whether it’s on how much time you spend playing or the amount of money you bet. Thankfully responsible gaming is a priority for the British gambling industry as all stakeholders, namely operators, regulators, and support agencies, are working hand in hand to ensure players have all the tools necessary to keep their gambling in check.
While time, deposit, and loss limits can be very helpful for many players, self-exclusion is the most valuable tool one can access to truly stop themselves from problem gambling. It’s an empowering means for one to take a break, and GAMSTOP helps one truly stop for a period of their choosing. Combined with other forms of support GAMSTOP allows one to take their first steps towards both psychological and financial recovery.
Taking Back Control With GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP provides a lifeline for people struggling with their online gambling habits. It’s a straightforward service that is easy to use, and once registered one will be blocked from all UKGC-licensed sites, providing structured support for individuals who need to take a break. Of course GAMSTOP needs to be combined with other support services - after all it cannot block one from online casinos not licensed with the UKGC - but it’s still an excellent means for all of those who want to take back control and build a healthier relationship with gambling.
