Plan of Action

sj301188 wrote: So I posted my story yesterday, one of which was not unique but somehow it felt good to vent... as I've been told I'm not alone in this and I feel that due to this, I would share my plan of action...

I've registered via Gamstop and the process of self exclusion emails has begun...it seems rather strange being told in email after email that due to my circumstances they will be suspending my account.... but at the same time, its a breathe of fresh air.... finally I can focus on turning my life around without the worry of having a relapse. (I have never visited a bookies so the urge is not their for me. If you do visit bookies, there are options for exclusion their too).

I've made the big step of contacting stepchange. Whilst I was anxious at first, it was good to tell my story to someone who was not judgemental and very understanding. (Granted they have probably heard them all, but its best to be open an honest. Only then can I start to understand the seriousness of my situation).

After going through my various debts and total income, we finally agreed a debt management plan which would reduce my overall costs and help me repay my debt. (Understandably I know my credit file will take a hit, but I know that within 3 years and 5 months, I'll be free from this hell). I understand some may not be as fortunate as to be employed, but that's not to say they cant help. If you never try, you will never know all the options there to assist you. I'm in the process of completing my paperwork which will be sent to my lenders and hopefully make life enjoyable again.

I've also been back through emails and noticed I had previously self excluded from various sites. A lot of these sites were part of the same company. As part of responsible gambling, any future accounts linked to these site or that group should have been blocked immediately. As they never did, this lead to further gambling.

Now I'm not one of these sore losers who just wants there money back, but I'm a firm believer in a fair playing field. If I take responsibility for my own faults, then these companies must acknowledge their faults to protect players. I've sort advice from the Gambling Commision in order to make sure I had my facts before contacting these sites and fired off a few emails. Low and behold two responses this evening acknowledging their failures and a total of £850 is to be refunded.

I'm not saying that this will apply for everybody, but I do feel if you have a strong case then definitely do not hesitate. Thus £850 would usually end up on a casino, but as I am taking steps to change my life, it will remain in a savings account.(If you read my previous post "the final straw", you'll know I used to be so responsible with money and savings). I feel like this will be used as statement of intent to remind me of a better time and encourage me to start saving again.

I've explained my troubles to my partner and although it was heart breaking at first, she admitted that we have been together for a long time and come along way, and based on the hard times we've had before, we can get through it. Its very reassuring. (I know, its not as simple as that, and it will take time, but its my job to ensure her faith in me is not in vain.)

So we've set a goal. As my credit file is pretty damaged for the next 6 years (it will feel like a life sentence) saving money each month will help have a healthy deposit to eventually move out of our house and buy a house. I will see the fruits of my labour in the long run.

So whilst I understand this is going to be a long journey, I want to encourage those who are not sure where to turn, that the first step out of gambling debt, starts with Gamstop. After this, there are many charities out there with options for any circumstances, to ease the pressure and allow you to focus on overcoming this parasite.)

As I've said before, I will keep you updated along the way and I appreciate the comments on my previous post. If anybody has any questions, then please feel free to share.

Sounds a great plan. And congratulations on getting the £850 refunded. Have a healthy and happy 2019.