We run a comparison site for non-GamStop operators, which means we have a particular responsibility to be honest about the risks. Because these operators sit outside UK self-exclusion and affordability checks, staying in control is entirely down to you. This page is here to help you do that, and to make sure you always know where to turn if gambling stops being fun. There is no judgement here — reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and support is free, confidential and available right now.
Need help now?
BeGambleAware runs the National Gambling Helpline — free and confidential, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on 0808 8020 133. If you or someone close to you is struggling, that is the first number to call.
Where to get free, confidential help
| BeGambleAware | The primary UK source of information and support. Runs the free National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, 24/7, with live chat. begambleaware.org |
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| GamCare | Free information, advice and one-to-one support, including counselling and the helpline. gamcare.org.uk |
| GamStop | The UK's national self-exclusion scheme. Registering blocks you from all UKGC-licensed sites in one step. Important: non-GamStop sites are not covered by GamStop — see below. gamstop.co.uk |
| NHS National Gambling Support Network | Free NHS treatment and specialist gambling clinics across England, via the NHS. nhs.uk |
| Gambling Therapy | Free online support and a global community for anyone affected by gambling, including friends and family. gamblingtherapy.org |
Non-GamStop sites are NOT covered by GamStop
This is the single most important thing to understand on this page. GamStop only blocks operators licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. The offshore, non-GamStop operators compared on this site are not connected to the GamStop database, so a GamStop self-exclusion will not stop you accessing them. If you self-excluded through GamStop because gambling was harming you, these sites let you bypass that protection — and we would urge you, sincerely, to keep your exclusion in place and speak to GamCare on 0808 8020 133 before going any further. Only you can judge whether playing again is safe for you, but you do not have to make that decision alone.
Staying in control
If you do gamble, a few simple habits keep it fun and keep it affordable:
- Set a deposit limit. Decide before you play how much you can comfortably afford to lose, and treat it as the cost of entertainment — like a cinema ticket — not an investment. Most operators let you set deposit, loss and spend limits in your account; use them.
- Set a time limit. Decide how long you will play and stop when you reach it. Reality-check reminders and session timers help. It is easy to lose track of time online.
- Never chase losses. Trying to win back what you have lost is how a bad night becomes a serious problem. If you are losing, stop — the odds do not even out because you are "due".
- Only gamble with money you have. Never gamble with money set aside for bills, rent or food, and never with borrowed money or on credit. If you cannot afford to lose it, do not stake it.
- Keep it balanced. Don't gamble when you are stressed, upset, bored or under the influence, and don't let it crowd out other parts of your life.
Affordability — can you really afford it?
Unlike UK-licensed sites, non-GamStop operators generally do not run affordability checks. That removes a brake that is there for a reason. Before you deposit, ask yourself honestly: would losing this amount affect your ability to pay your bills, or cause you stress? Would you be upset to lose it? If the answer is yes, the stake is too high. A good rule is to gamble only with genuinely disposable money — what is left after all your essentials and savings are covered.
Signs it may be becoming a problem
Problem gambling can affect anyone, and it often creeps up gradually. These are some of the warning signs:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you intended, or than you can afford.
- Chasing losses — gambling to win back money you have lost.
- Gambling to escape stress, low mood, anxiety or boredom.
- Borrowing money, selling things, or neglecting bills to fund gambling.
- Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble, or hiding it.
- Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to cut down or stop.
- Arguments, or gambling damaging your relationships, work or studies.
- Feeling guilty, ashamed or out of control about your gambling.
If several of these feel familiar, for you or someone you care about, it is worth reaching out. You can take an anonymous self-assessment at BeGambleAware or talk it through with the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
Tools that can help
- Deposit, loss and time limits inside your operator account — set them and keep them low.
- Self-exclusion. You can self-exclude from an individual operator, and from all UKGC-licensed sites at once through GamStop. Remember that GamStop does not cover non-GamStop sites.
- Blocking software. Tools such as Gamban and GAMSTOP-recommended blockers can block gambling sites — including offshore ones — across your devices, which is especially relevant here. Bank blocks on gambling transactions are available from most UK banks too.
- Taking a break. Even a short cooling-off period can help you regain perspective.
Protecting children
Gambling is strictly for adults aged 18 and over. If children share your devices, use parental-control and filtering software, keep your account details and payment methods private, and make sure under-18s cannot access gambling sites.
Remember
For more about who we are and why we take this seriously, see our About page. Questions? Contact us.