Gambling Support Services: Where to Get Help with Betting Problems

Gambling support services exist for one reason: to help anyone whose gambling is causing harm. Whether you are betting beyond your means, struggling to stop, or worried about someone else, free and confidential help is available right now.

UK Support Services

GamCare

Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
Live chat: www.gamcare.org.uk
Services: Telephone counselling, face-to-face therapy, online support groups, family support programme
Best for: Immediate crisis support and ongoing counselling referrals

GamCare is the UK's leading provider of gambling support. Their helpline is staffed by trained advisors who can offer immediate emotional support, practical advice, and referrals to appropriate treatment.

BeGambleAware

Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (shared with GamCare)
Website: www.begambleaware.org
Services: Treatment referrals, self-help tools, educational resources, research publications
Best for: Finding local treatment providers and self-assessment tools

BeGambleAware coordinates the National Gambling Treatment Service, which funds free treatment across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Gordon Moody Association

Website: www.gordonmoody.org.uk
Services: Residential treatment (12-week programmes), online therapy, relapse prevention
Best for: Severe gambling addiction requiring intensive residential treatment

Gambling Therapy

Website: www.gamblingtherapy.org
Services: Online group therapy, one-to-one chat, multilingual support, smartphone app
Best for: International support and online group therapy sessions

NHS Gambling Clinics

The NHS operates specialist gambling clinics in London and Leeds, with plans to expand. Your GP can refer you to NHS-funded gambling treatment, which is completely free.

Support for Families

Problem gambling affects more than just the gambler. Partners, children, parents, and friends often experience:

Financial hardship from shared debts
Emotional stress and trust issues
Relationship breakdown

All major support services offer family-specific programmes. GamCare's family support service connects loved ones with specialist counsellors who understand the unique challenges of living with a problem gambler.

Self-Assessment

If you are unsure whether your gambling is problematic, consider these questions:

Do you bet more than you can afford to lose?
Have you borrowed money or sold possessions to fund gambling?
Do you feel restless or irritable when trying to stop?
Do you gamble to escape problems or relieve negative feelings?
Have you lied to family members about your gambling?

If you answered "yes" to two or more, consider contacting a support service for a confidential discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main gambling helpline in the UK?+

The National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare, is available on 0808 8020 133. It is free, confidential, and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Trained advisors offer immediate support and referrals to treatment services.

Is gambling support really free?+

Yes. All the major UK gambling support services — GamCare, BeGambleAware, Gambling Therapy, and the Gordon Moody Association — are fully funded by the gambling industry through GambleAware. There is no cost to the individual for helpline calls, counselling, or residential treatment.

Can family members get help too?+

Absolutely. All major support services offer dedicated help for partners, family members, and friends affected by someone else's gambling. GamCare runs a specific family support programme, and BeGambleAware provides resources specifically for loved ones.

What treatment options are available?+

Treatment ranges from telephone counselling and online CBT programmes to face-to-face therapy and residential treatment. The Gordon Moody Association operates residential treatment centres for the most severe cases. Your GP can also refer you to NHS-funded gambling treatment services.

How do I know if I have a gambling problem?+

Warning signs include: spending more than you can afford, borrowing money to gamble, hiding your gambling from others, gambling to escape problems, and feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling. If gambling is causing distress in any area of your life, seek support.