Hello, my name is Cameron. I am 19 years old from England.
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A few months ago I got myself into a huge mess with gambling which now I've not gambled in 3 months. I used every single site there was. And was addicted to live casino.Â
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I started when I was 18 as a distraction almost. It started off as bingo. To take my mind off being abused by my partner at the time. But then it turned into a huge addiction with live game shows.
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I always thought I'd win big but never did.
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I blew thousands from my child trust fund and my earnings. I'm still in a lot of debt with Scottish Power, my council and some contracts I'm on.
I don't even know exactly how much debt I'm in. I'm so lost. I'm in the thousands.
I also got a loan of 2000 pounds when I started gambling which I'm paying off.
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I'm in so much debt and can't cope. I'm so young and live alone in my flat since leaving care.Â
I can't deal with the money problems. I've tried to get help but I still can't afford the debts even with repayment plans.
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It's so stressful and I'm so poorly mentally from it all. I've overcome my addiction to gambling (I'm self excluded etc) but not overcome the mess it's caused me.
I have nobody either. No family. No carers. I have a 16 plus worker that's done her bit but I have no financial support from her related to debts.
I am so lost.  I don't know what to do. It's just all so hard. And no one really helps me with this.
I'll be posting my story soon on how I overcome gambling as I want to help others who have a gambling addiction.
Thank you everyone. I'll check this regularly to keep in touch. ??
Hi Cameron
What help have you been given with debt and repayment plans ? i used step change and went on a dmp , you need to be 100 percent honest with them though , if you owe money to family or friends this needs to be put down every penny as this is considered out of the arrangement so you have some money left for yourself. At 19 you have alot of time to get this right and still be young once paid off , id advise take care of it now and learn from it, take out no more credit.
Hello Cameron and welcome to the forum. You have come to the right place for advice and support.
You've done really well to abstain from gambling for 3 months and to self exclude.Â
I understand that the debt must be a huge worry for you. Lots of people on here have used Stepchange as @pbuxton1982 mentioned above. Have a look at their website or give them a call. They will hopefully be able to help you manage your debt. I think they can work out a manageable amount that you can afford. Don't feel embarrassed or worried to talk to them. They are there to help.
The advisers are always available to talk and offer support. Please contact them if you need to talk. They can offer support and have lots of useful information.Â
Keep posting. You don't have to feel alone. It's a really supportive community here.Â
Take care.
Jess
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