Getting Help & Support

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Getting Help & Support

  1. Home
  2. /
  3. Get Help

You don’t have to figure this out alone

Recognising that gambling may be affecting your life is a powerful first step. Support is available, and seeking help early can prevent financial, emotional, and relationship harm from escalating.

This page helps you understand when it’s time to reach out, what professional support actually involves, and how to start difficult but necessary conversations with people you trust.

When to seek professional help

If gambling is causing stress, secrecy, financial strain, mood changes, or loss of control, speaking to a trained professional can provide clarity and structure. You don’t need to be “at rock bottom” to ask for help.

What therapy or counselling looks like

Support may include one-to-one counselling, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), group sessions, or specialised gambling support programmes. These focus on understanding triggers, rebuilding control, and developing healthier coping strategies at your own pace.

Talking to family and loved ones

Opening up can feel intimidating, but honest conversations often reduce shame and isolation. We provide guidance on how to explain your situation, ask for support, and rebuild trust gradually.

UK helplines & support groups

National Gambling Helpline (GamCare)

0808 8020 133

24/7 ● Freephone ● 365 Days a year

Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk

  • Immediate, confidential advice and emotional support.
  • Information on gambling harms and how to reduce them.
  • Referral into free treatment services across England, Scotland and Wales.
  • Live Chat, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger support, plus online forums and daily chatrooms for peer support.

GambleAware & National Gambling Support Network

​What they do:

Website: https://www.gambleaware.org

Commission and coordinate the National Gambling Support Network, which provides free, confidential treatment and support in partnership with GamCare and NHS services.
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Online information, self‑assessment tools, and a service finder to locate local support (face‑to‑face or online).

NHS Gambling Addiction Support

NHS information page: “Help for problems with gambling”

  • National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133).
  • NHS and partnered gambling treatment clinics.
  • Primary Care Gambling Service and National Gambling Treatment Service.

Other Notable UK Services

Gordon Moody

Residential and intensive treatment for severe gambling addiction.

Website: https://gordonmoody.org.uk

Betknowmore UK / National Gambling Support Network partners

Community-based programmes, recovery groups, and outreach.

SupportLine

Gambling page – Lists multiple regional charities (e.g. Ara in Bristol, Aquarius in West Midlands) with phone numbers and local services.