Help with problem gambling
If you have concerns about your own gambling or the gambling of someone close to you, support is available. Find gambling support services.
Symptoms of problem gambling
Do you recognise any of the following?
- The need to gamble with more and more money
- Being stressed or angry when attempting to cut down or stop gambling
- Making repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop gambling
- Often being focused on gambling (e.g. having repeated thoughts about past wins/losses, thinking about the bet, or thinking of ways to get money to gamble)
- Gambling when feeling upset (e.g. helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed)
- Gambling to win back lost money (known as “chasing losses”)
- Lying to hide how much they are gambling or how often gambling takes place
- Risking or losing an important relationship, job or opportunity because of gambling
- Needing to borrow money from others because of gambling
If you wish to understand how your gambling may be affecting you, you can use GamCare's online self-assessment tool (external link) or speak to a professional.
Support services
If you believe you or someone close to you is suffering due to gambling, there is a range of help available.
The National Gambling Treatment Service
This service offers free confidential treatment and support for anyone experiencing gambling-related harms. Support is available online, by phone, face-to-face and in groups as well as courses over a number of weeks.
National Gambling Helpline
For free and confidential 24/7 support, including help in a crisis, you can call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133
GamCare services
If you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s gambling, you can contact your local GamCare service to access quick, free, and confidential support in-person, by phone, or online. Face-to-face support is currently available in Wood Green and Northumberland Park.
- Phone 020 7801 7008, Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm
- Gamcare’s website (external link)
- Attend a drop-in session at the Northumberland Park Neighbourhood Resource Centre – first Thursday of every month, 9.30am-1pm
Finance and debt
If you or someone close to you is facing financial difficulties or problems managing debts, please see the advice and support available from Haringey Council.
Mental health and wellbeing
If you or someone close to you is experiencing mental health problems, there are a range of support options available nationally and locally to help.
Community safety
If you have concerns about yours or another’s safety, including issues of domestic violence or anti-social behaviour, please see the advice and support available on our community safety page.