Self-Excluding from Gambling (GAMSTOP & Multi-Operator)
How to self-exclude from online and land-based gambling in England & Wales.
Overview
Self-exclusion is a tool available to anyone who wants to restrict their own ability to gamble. All Gambling Commission-licensed operators in Great Britain are required to participate in self-exclusion schemes. The main schemes are GAMSTOP (for online gambling) and multi-operator self-exclusion schemes for land-based venues (casinos, betting shops, bingo halls, and adult gaming centres). Self-exclusion is a legal commitment — operators who allow a self-excluded person to gamble face regulatory action from the Gambling Commission.
Who Can Use This Process
- You are likely eligible to use this guide if your situation involves self-excluding from gambling (gamstop & multi-operator).
- You have a genuine legal basis for the matter (contract, tort, statutory right, etc.).
- You have made reasonable attempts to resolve the matter directly with the other party first.
Step-by-Step Process
Register with GAMSTOP (Online)
Visit gamstop.co.uk and register for free. You can choose a self-exclusion period of 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. Once registered, all online gambling operators licensed by the Gambling Commission must block your access.
- You will need to provide your name, date of birth, email, and address so operators can identify you
Self-Exclude from Land-Based Venues
Visit the relevant multi-operator scheme website for your type of gambling: MOSES (casinos), the Betting Self-Exclusion Scheme, the Bingo Association scheme, or BACTA (arcades). You can also ask any venue directly.
- Self-exclusion from a venue typically lasts at least 12 months
Block Gambling Apps & Websites
Use gambling blocking software such as GamBan (which blocks gambling websites and apps on your devices) or ask your bank to block gambling transactions. Many UK banks now offer gambling transaction blocks through their apps.
- GamBan costs around £2.49/month but free for those referred by GamCare or the National Gambling Helpline
Get Support
Contact the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133, free and confidential) or GamCare (gamcare.org.uk) for counselling and support. NHS-funded treatment is available through the National Gambling Treatment Service.
Costs
Important Warnings
Self-exclusion is legally binding on operators — if an operator allows you to gamble during your exclusion period, report it to the Gambling Commission.
If you are in the minimum self-exclusion period, you cannot reverse it early.
Self-exclusion does not prevent you from gambling with unlicensed operators — always check that any gambling site holds a Gambling Commission licence.
Useful Links
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost?
- Main outlays are: GAMSTOP registration — Free; Land-based self-exclusion — Free; National Gambling Helpline — Free. Court fees often qualify for Help with Fees remission if you're on a low income. Solicitor fees are extra and vary widely — many matters can be done as a litigant in person.
- What are the most common mistakes to avoid?
- Watch out for: Self-exclusion is legally binding on operators — if an operator allows you to gamble during your exclusion period, report it to the Gambling Commission.; If you are in the minimum self-exclusion period, you cannot reverse it early.; Self-exclusion does not prevent you from gambling with unlicensed operators — always check that any gambling site holds a Gambling Commission licence.. If you're unsure on any of these, get advice from a regulated solicitor or a free service like Citizens Advice before acting.
- Where can I find the official forms and guidance?
- The official sources are: GAMSTOP — National Online Self-Exclusion; GamCare — Support & Counselling; Gambling Commission — Self-exclusion. Always use the forms / guidance from the issuing authority's own site — third-party copies can be out of date.
- Can I do this myself without a solicitor?
- Yes — many people complete this kind of matter as a litigant in person. The site walks through each step in plain English. A solicitor is recommended if: large sums are at stake, the other side has legal representation, the matter involves criminal liability, children, immigration, or you're unsure on any procedural deadline. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice, Law Centres, and (for some matters) LawWorks pro bono clinics.