If you've opened this page because gambling has stopped feeling like entertainment, you're in the right place. Basswin offers control tools to help you stay in charge, and this page sets out the warning signs worth watching for, the questions that matter, and where to turn when you need support beyond what we can offer.
The honest framing
Gambling works as a pastime when it's a choice, not a habit you rely on. It should never be a way to solve money problems, and the moment it starts costing you more than you can afford to lose – in cash, time, or peace of mind – it's time to step back. We want your time here to stay enjoyable, which means recognising when it isn't.
Behaviour that should worry you
These signs show up before the problem feels urgent, and catching them early makes a difference:
- Chasing losses by depositing more than you planned
- Lying to family or friends about how much you're spending or how often you play
- Gambling when you're stressed, angry, or trying to escape something
- Neglecting work, relationships, or responsibilities to keep playing
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund deposits
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when you try to stop
If more than one of these applies, it's worth taking action now rather than waiting.
Self-assessment
Answer these questions honestly – they're not a diagnosis, but they give you a clearer picture:
- Have you ever tried to win back money you lost the same day?
- Do you gamble longer or with more money than you intended?
- Has anyone close to you criticised your gambling?
- Have you felt guilty after a session?
- Do you gamble to forget problems or escape difficult feelings?
- Has gambling caused you financial difficulty?
- Have you lied about the time or money you spend on gambling?
- Do you feel restless or irritable when you try to cut down?
Several "yes" answers suggest it's time to speak with someone who can help, or to use one of the control tools below.
Our deposit and time controls
We offer two main options for taking a break. Self-exclusion via our online chat blocks your account for 30 days from the date you request it – a fixed period that gives you breathing room without needing to make a permanent decision. If you need longer or want to talk through your options first, you can request a break by writing to our support team at [email protected] or calling +441294620814. This route requires a phone call from one of our support managers to confirm your identity before the block is applied, which adds a layer of security but means it takes a little longer to arrange.
Both options are there to give you control over your play. If you're not sure which suits your situation, our support team can talk you through them.
Support organisations
Professional help is free, confidential, and available right now if you need it. These UK organisations specialise in gambling support:
GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 – a free, 24-hour service staffed by trained advisers who understand what you're going through. You can also use their live chat if you'd rather not call.
BeGambleAware provides online tools, guides, and direct support, including a treatment finder if you want to speak with a counsellor near you.
GamStop is a free national self-exclusion scheme that blocks your access to all UK-licensed gambling sites in one step, for a minimum of six months. It's irreversible during the exclusion period, which makes it the strongest option when you need a complete break.
Gordon Moody offers residential treatment programmes and online therapy for people who need more intensive support.
Blocking software
If you want to stop gambling across all sites without registering for a formal scheme, Gamban and BetBlocker are blocking apps that work on phones, tablets, and computers. BetBlocker is free and open-source; Gamban charges a subscription but covers every device you own under one licence.
Taking a break
Stepping away doesn't mean admitting defeat – it means you've recognised that something isn't working and you're taking charge of it. Whether you use our self-exclusion option, call the helpline, or install blocking software, the important thing is that you act on what you've noticed rather than waiting for it to get worse.
You can always contact our team at [email protected] if you have questions about how our responsible gambling tools work.
Protecting minors
This site is strictly for players aged 18 and over (18+). If you share a device with anyone younger, parental control software such as Net Nanny or Qustodio can block access to gambling sites and protect children from age-restricted content.
Access to this site is restricted to persons aged 18 and over (18+). Gambling should be entertainment, not a chore – for free, confidential support, visit BeGambleAware.org.