Self-excluded on GamStop for 1 year but still struggling

Hello, 

Thank you for sharing your experience in our forum

If you would like to block gambling sites not covered by Gamstop, I would advise registering with Gamban. Gamban is blocking software and it blocks all gambling related site and apps getting on your phone. It is completely free and can be registered on up to 14 devices. You can register with Gamban for free here at this link https://gamban.com/gamcare

You may also like to consider asking your bank to put a gambling bank block on your bank card. We have a section on our website about gambling bank blocks and which high street banks provide them. https://www.gamcare.org.uk/news-and-blog/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-bank-gambling-blocks/

There is financial support available for people with gambling related debt as well as support for families and relationships which are affected by gambling. Our helpline is open 24/7 if you would like to access further support 

Thank you again for contributing to our forum

@forum-admin Hi forum member. I was not aware of there being financial support for people who have got into debt through gambling? What is this support exactly.

Kind regards.

Pink Lady 🩷🍎

Hi, 

Well done for posting on here, that’s a huge achievement. 

Unfortunately, for this to work, you’ve got to be completely transparent. Only you can want to make the changes, and trust me, you cannot do this alone. You need to talk, you need to open up and you need to grab hold of every bit of help you can get your hands on. There is nothing to be ashamed about, this is an illness you’re dealing with. 

I was you 2 years ago, 4-5 months of no gambling, my husband thought that I was ‘over it.’ I didn’t tell him the whole truth, I held back a lot of stuff. We didn’t put things in place (like him taking over financial control) so a lot of doors were left open for me. I got complacent and back on to it worse than before. This then went on another 18 months, I tripled the debt and then hit rock bottom. 

Today I am 407 days GF, and I don’t even think about gambling anymore. I feel a million times better now I have control of my life. Gambling ruins everything.

Please be kind to yourself xx

Dear Pink Lady,

Thank you for your further response.

Just to clarify we are able to signpost/suggest to Forum Users from the UK that wish to discuss financial impact with regard to gambling debt with debt charities such as www.stepchange.org.uk and www.nationaldebtline.org.uk

You may also wish to look at the 'benefits calculator' and 'charitable grants search' on the www.Turn2us.org.uk website if you have not already.

Best Wishes,

Louise

Forum Admin