Three leading providers of responsible gambling tools have combined their forces to produce a one-stop shop to offer help and advice for problem gamblers in the UK. GamCare, GamBan and GamStop have pooled their resources and produced TalkBanStop.
GamCare announced the project on its webpages saying, “We know that lockdown has been a troubling time for many people… our new campaign TalkBanStop is encouraging people to make the most of the free tools and support that are available this spring.”
The three services have been running separately up until now but have come together to provide a joined-up methodology, accessible through a single website which is endorsed by the National Gambling Treatment Service.
GamCare states that this banding together is, “vital to adding additional layers of protection for anyone struggling to control their gambling.”
The three-part program provides gamblers struggling with addiction, a step-by-step system to address their issues and try to overcome them once and for all. Once somebody has admitted to themselves that they have a problem, TalkBanStop gives them a clear and structured process to deal with it—starting with communication.
Talking to someone is usually the first step in getting problem gamblers on the road to recovery. This part of the program is provided by GamCare. Its trained Advisers can identify the best support and tools for your personal needs.
GamCare is available 24/7 via telephone or live online chat. It also offers support a group chat service and online forum, allowing users to engage with—and get support from—others in similar situations.
The Ban part of the equation is offered by Gamban, which provides software that allows users to block thousands of gambling sites and apps —on up to 15 devices. it can be obtained for free, through TalkBanStop.
GAMSTOP is a self-exclusion program, run by The National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited. The non-profit group helps problem gamblers self-exclude from online gambling accounts for up to five years at a time. They can also put measures in place to block gambling companies from sending you marketing material.
Once you have signed up, GamStop will send you an email detailing further support and tools that can assist in recovery.
Extra Support
On top of its core program, TalkBanStop offers several other services. It produces a podcast presented by Chris Gilham and former footballer Michael Chopra, who talk about their own experiences of problem gambling and how crucial it is to find the right support.
Most of the big banks now offer customers the option to block gambling transactions and GamCare has web pages that show you how to do this. It also suggests apps and strategies that can help you manage your finances.
If you are concerned about your gambling but not yet ready to talk to somebody, GamCare has a self-assessment test and free self-help resources on its homepage. There are also testimonial stories from people that have been helped by the organization.
You can call GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones—and will not show up on itemized phone bills.
