Safe & Responsible Play: Staying in Control (Time-Out, Self-Exclusion & Support)
Playing should always be fun — never stressful. If it stops feeling fun, take a break. You can ask for a time-out at any moment, set spending limits, or use official tools like GAMSTOP (self-exclusion) and GamBan (blocking software).
- Only play with money you can afford to lose.
- Take breaks — and request a time-out any time.
- If you’re worried, use GAMSTOP, GamBan, or speak to GamCare.
Responsible play: the basics
Competitions should be entertainment — like a night out or a treat. The safest approach is to set clear boundaries before you enter: time, budget, and expectations.
Simple rules that help most people
- Set a budget for the week/month and stick to it.
- Never chase losses (trying to “win it back”).
- Take breaks — don’t play when stressed, tired, or upset.
- Keep it social (talk to someone you trust if you feel it’s getting too much).
Winning is never guaranteed. Treat every entry as paid entertainment, not as income or a “plan”.
Gambling addiction: warning signs to watch for
People can develop harmful habits gradually. If any of these sound familiar, it may be time to pause and get support.
- Spending more than you intended (or hiding spending from others).
- Feeling anxious, guilty, or irritable after playing.
- Chasing losses or increasing spend to get the same “rush”.
- Borrowing money, using credit, or skipping essentials to play.
- Thinking about playing constantly, even when you want to stop.
You’re not alone — and support is available. The strongest move is asking for help early.
Time-out (cooling-off): you can request it anytime
If you feel you need a break — for any reason — you can request a time-out. A time-out temporarily pauses your ability to play so you can reset and return only when you feel in control.
How time-out helps
- Stops impulse spending.
- Gives you space to think clearly.
- Helps you get back to “fun mode” — or decide to stop entirely.
You can request a time-out at any moment. Contact us via our support channels and we’ll action it as quickly as possible. If you want to stop longer-term, consider self-exclusion tools below.
Self-exclusion & blocking tools (GAMSTOP, GamBan)
If you want stronger protection than a time-out, the UK has excellent free and trusted tools.
GAMSTOP (self-exclusion)
GAMSTOP is a free service that lets you self-exclude from online gambling companies licensed in Great Britain. You choose the length (for example 6 months, 1 year, or longer depending on options).
GAMSTOP — Register / Learn more
GamBan (blocking software)
GamBan is blocking software that can help you stop accessing gambling sites and apps across devices. It’s often used alongside self-exclusion for stronger protection.
GamCare’s TalkBanStop partnership can help people access support and blocking tools.
Where to get confidential help (UK)
If you or someone close to you is worried about gambling harm, these UK services can help:
- GamCare — support, resources, and the National Gambling Helpline.
- National Gambling Helpline (GamCare) — confidential advice and support.
- UK Gambling Commission — Self-exclusion info
- GamCare — Blocking software guidance
- NHS — National Gambling Clinic
FAQ
Can I ask for a time-out at any moment?
What’s the difference between time-out and self-exclusion?
What if I think I’m losing control?
Can someone else ask for a time-out on my account?
Sources
Need a break?
If you’d like a time-out, contact our support team and we’ll help immediately. If you need stronger protection, use GAMSTOP and/or GamBan and reach out to GamCare for confidential support.