Can it be done alone?

Hello @Sg21,

Welcome to the GamCare forum. 

Not everyone who recovers from problem gambling will need a trusted person to manage their money for them, though a lot of people do find this to be useful. However, it can be really beneficial to have a supportive community around you.

I am really glad you have joined the forum and I hope you find the support and encouragement from other members to be helpful. You can also connect with members in our group chatroom, and Gamblers Anonymous hold group supportive meetings both in person and through Zoom. 

It sounds as though it has been a hard time but it is positive that you have banned yourself from the gambling sites you played on previously. I would also suggest signing up to GamStop at https://www.gamstop.co.uk/; this prevents you from accessing gambling sites and apps licensed in Great Britain. Your bank may also be able to put in a block on gambling transactions - here is a list of banks which offer this service: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/self-help/money-management/#banks.  

You are also very welcome to speak with an advisor on our Helpline on 0808 8020 133, on WhatsApp or on Netline. We are here 24 hours so there is always someone you can talk to. We can provide you with a free license for GamBan - this is software which blocks your devices from accessing gambling sites and apps globally. We can also have a chat with you about your situation and discuss various further options which can help, including free professional support.

I am concerned to hear that you have been struggling to access food and owing people money who you describe as getting "nasty" about it. I would suggest having a look at the following resources:

You can find a local food bank through the Trussell Trust - https://www.trusselltrust.org/. You could also contact your local council if you require an emergency food parcel.

You can report a loan shark at https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk/report-a-loan-shark/. You can also speak with the police if you are experiencing harassment/threats. 

Information if you need help with essentials, bills, rent etc - https://www.stepchange.org/debt-info/emergency-funding.aspx.  

Please keep posting; we are here to support you.

Best wishes,

Sophie

Forum Admin 

I have personally found it much easier since having spoken to someone about it (who now also has access to my finances) but I’m sure there are people who manage it alone. Do you have any friends that you would be willing to tell? I was (and still am) adamant not to speak to my family about it for various reasons, but telling a friend definitely helped. If you do decide not to share anything with family/friends I would recommend going to group sessions/posting regularly on the forum or chat rooms as I don’t think doing it entirely alone is the best idea. 

I know it’s already mentioned above, but do try and get some help with food and the people you owe money to. 

How have you been getting on today?