How does GamStop work?

GamStop is a free, universal self exclusion scheme designed to restrict your gambling across all UK gambling websites that have opted in. Currently there is a large number of websites that are included in GamStop, but soon the Gambling Commission will require all UK licensed gambling sites to be a part of GamStop. But how does it work?

To register with GamStop you will require your postcode, date of birth and email address. You can choose a self exclusion period of 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. After 24 hours, the exclusion will be active and you will no longer be able to visit any applicable sites.

When the self exclusion period has ended you will need to contact GamStop and request that you are removed. 

Some things to take note of before you register: registering with GamStop may not automatically withdraw any funds from your currently active accounts. Before you register be sure you don’t have any money to withdraw as you may not be able to access those funds until your self exclusion period is over. This is not true for every site, MrQ for example automatically triggers the refund process when you register for GamStop. Be sure to check each sites policy before you register.

If you want any more information, read our full beginners guide to GamStop. Visit GamStop to register.

Catch up on all of our RGW19 content:

• Day 1: The 5 Ws of Responsible Gambling Week
• Day 2: How can you keep track of time when gambling?
• Day 3: New safer gambling initiative
• Day 5: The Loot Box Debate
• Day 6: Are you aware that you're gambling?
• Day 7: The Four Degrees of Gambling Separation

If you’re at all worried about your gambling habits then please visit Gamcare for advice and support. Remember to check out the week of RGWeek2019 content by visiting @RGWeek19 and using the hashtag #RGWeek19.

We have a number of playing guides that can help you identify a gambling problem or assist you with gambling responsibly:

• What does responsible gambling mean?
• How to gamble responsibly
• How to set limits on your gambling
• A beginners guide to Gamstop
• How to help someone with a gambling problem