Suggestions please...

Hi Kate, I had the cash withdrawal facility removed from my Barclays credit card & the limit massively reduced which meant I could still pay for stuff but I don’t know whether this card would be accepted in the bookies as I’ve not gambled in them for some time. I also know that there’s a clause on my Nationwide credit card saying it will not be accepted in any establishments that appear to be gambling related but again, no idea how effective this is.

I have no idea about motorway services & whether they are covered by the SENSE system (I did notice an attendant in one the other day but I think this is an exception rather than a rule as they were always walk in when I used to use them)? But you could certainly phone ahead in relation to self exclusions for bookies in any areas that you are heading to...MOSES 0800 2942060.

Well done on your 1st 10 days & congratulations in the forward thinking...It’s stuff like this that is so important on our journey.

Hi ODAAT,
thank you for responding and for the tips about removing the cash withdrawal facility from credit cards - I didn't know that was possible, but will be a big help.
I started reading your diary and your honesty and openness are refreshing and encouraging.
Another day under the belt for me. Keep them coming please!

Hi Kate - I'm a van driver who is given a generic credit card attached to whatever van I'm driving. Each morning I'm assigned a van, I go to the 'drivers box' to take the credit card and keys. I'm given the pin code, but it has a floor limit spend of £200, which covers the most impossible amount of fuel needed.

I'm not judging - but it would never occur to me to use it for anything other than fuel. (Not because I'm some sort of cool genius, but rather because would I risk my job, my life, prison, etc, for £200? No. I'd use my own credit card for that and lose £2000+) So, I would imagine it's 'easy' to ask your company to set a similar floor limit to your company card. IF you are always going up and down the motorway to similar places it should be relatively straight-forward to guess what you need for fuel and Travelodge to within £50 each way. Get them to set the limit on the company card and then you're safe. The worst it'll go wrong is by £30/40 if you really get tempted, and you can then always pay that back quick in moments of weakness, etc.

Max

Hi Kate,

Firstly well done for wanting to get in control of your addiicton. I know to well the feeling of the services gambling machines and hitting a cash point chasing the money back you lose.

You will find that everyone has their own way of doing things.

One thing you could try is a prepaid card or a Starling bank account that allows you to load money on the card or account. Once the money is gone then you can’t use it until you add more. So you could load up enough for the hotel and then fuel / lunch.

You can also block the card from ATM withdrawls and gambling.

If you have a partner they could transfer and load the money as and when you need it to help.

CJ.

Hi mad-max and cj.
thanks got the replies.
I don't have a corporate credit card - I use my own and then claim the money back.
I plan to call tomorrow to see if I can get the cash withdrawal facility removed!
Thanks for taking the time - appreciate the help
Kate

Hi Kate,

Good luck and I’m sure you’ll find a way that is workable for you.

CJ.

Hi all.
thanks again for the advice. I contacted one of my credit card providers this morning and have been able to put a restriction on cash withdrawals and any gambling related transactions.
once I have cleared the balance, I intend to drop my credit limit to as low as possible whilst still then being able to use that card for managing my fuel and hotel costs for work.
feeling positive that things are going in the right direction.
thanks again for the advice
Kate

Hi Kate,

Great news. It’s good that the bank is willing to help you get back on track.

Hopefully it’s Day 19 GF if my calculations are correct 🙂

CJ.

Hi Kate,

I had problems with the bank offering me loans and increased overdraft facilities. I even wrote to my bank (Lloyds) and asked them to take away those options, I had no reply and a year later i was £2000 in debt. I believe banks are better now, I only have a cardcash account with HSBC that has no overdraft facility or loans so can now focus on clearing me debts. Sounds like you're doing really well.

Best wishes

Stu

Hi kate,

Lovely speaking to you in chat. Hopefully speak soon. Take care,

Sarah