Self-exclusion: how this gambling control tool protects people and what families need to know
SaveSelf-exclusion is a tool that lets someone block themselves from gambling sites for a set period. When activated, it prevents that person from opening accounts, logging in to existing ones, and receiving marketing from the sites they have chosen. Children and Families explains what self-exclusion actually does, how long it lasts, and why families should understand it as part of safer play.
Self-exclusion stops access to gambling sites you choose
Self-exclusion works by letting a player tell the gambling sites they use that they want to block themselves. Once the request is made, that person cannot log into their account on those sites, and they are not allowed to open new ones. The sites also stop sending them promotional emails, text messages and other marketing material.
The person requesting self-exclusion must contact each site individually to set it up. This means if someone uses three different gambling sites, they need to make a separate self-exclusion request at each one. Some sites have this option in account settings; others ask players to email a support team or fill out a form.
How long self-exclusion lasts and what happens after
Self-exclusion periods can range from weeks to years, depending on what the person chooses when they set it up. Once the chosen period ends, the account becomes active again automatically. The person would then need to request self-exclusion again if they want to stay blocked.
This time-bound nature matters for families. Someone who self-excludes for a short period might see their account reopen without actively choosing to gamble again, especially if they have forgotten about the end date. A longer self-exclusion period gives more stable protection, but families should understand it is not permanent unless the person renews it repeatedly.
Self-exclusion differs from a time-out or a deposit limit
Self-exclusion, time-outs and deposit limits are three different tools, and families often mix them up. Understanding the differences helps families recognise what protection someone has chosen.
| Tool | What it blocks | How long it lasts | Can it be lifted early? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-exclusion | Access to the site; no new accounts allowed | weeks to years; ends automatically | No |
| Time-out (or cool-off) | Access to the site only | days or weeks; ends automatically | No |
| Deposit limit | How much money can be spent in a time period | stays in place unless changed by the player | Yes, by the player |
A time-out is shorter and temporary; a deposit limit only controls spending, not access. Self-exclusion is the strongest tool a single site offers because it removes access entirely. However, it only works on the sites where it has been set up.
The gap self-exclusion cannot close: switching between sites
The main limitation of self-exclusion is that it does not stop someone from gambling at a different site. If a person self-excludes from Site A but has never gambled at Site B, they can open an account at Site B the next day. This is why many families find that self-exclusion alone is not enough to address problem gambling.
For broader protection, a person can use GAMSTOP, the national self-exclusion scheme, which blocks access across all licensed gambling sites in Great Britain at once. GAMSTOP is more powerful than individual site self-exclusions because one application covers hundreds of sites rather than requiring separate requests at each one.
What self-exclusion does not do
Self-exclusion does not close existing accounts or recover money already spent. It blocks future access, but any balance in the account stays there. Some sites may offer to return balances to a registered payment method, but this depends on the site's own policy and is not automatic.
Self-exclusion also does not prevent someone from using a shared device to gamble elsewhere. If a family member shares a computer or phone with the person who has self-excluded, that person could still access other sites or use a different device. Families sometimes need to set up device-level protection in addition to self-exclusion.
Setting up self-exclusion: what to expect
The practical steps differ slightly between sites, but the basic process is straightforward:
- Log into the gambling account, or contact the site's support team if you cannot access the account
- Find the self-exclusion or account closure option, usually in settings or the help section
- Choose the length of the self-exclusion period
- Confirm the request in writing if the site asks for it
- Keep a record of the confirmation, including the site name and the date the exclusion ends
Some sites ask for additional information, such as why the person is requesting self-exclusion or how they found out about the tool. Others require verification of identity before processing the request. If a site makes the process unclear or difficult, the support team should be able to walk through it step by step.
What families should know about self-exclusion
Self-exclusion shows that someone recognises they have a problem and is trying to take action. This can feel like progress, and it is. However, families should understand that requesting self-exclusion does not mean the problem is solved.
Someone who self-excludes might still experience strong urges to gamble, financial stress from past losses, or shame about what has happened. They may feel relief at first, then gradually lose motivation as the blocked site fades from their mind. When the self-exclusion period ends, the risk of returning to gambling is real.
Families can support someone who has self-excluded by acknowledging the step they have taken, helping them stay focused on why they chose to block themselves, and continuing to provide practical help – such as managing joint finances or keeping them aware of the date the exclusion ends. Combining self-exclusion with other forms of support – talking to someone they trust, contacting a helpline, or seeking professional treatment – gives someone a much better chance of lasting change.
Getting help with problem gambling
If someone you care about is struggling with gambling, or if you are looking for support for yourself, several organisations in the UK offer free and confidential help.
GamCare (https://www.gamcare.org.uk) runs the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free of charge. Advisors can discuss what self-exclusion means, how to set it up, and what other steps might help. BeGambleAware (https://www.begambleaware.org) offers information and signposting to support services. Gordon Moody (https://www.gordonmoody.org.uk) provides residential and online treatment for people working through gambling harm.
Self-exclusion is one tool among many. If it is not working, or if it feels like enough on its own, reaching out for help is the next step. These organisations know gambling problems well and can advise what might work for the specific situation.
Online gambling is for people aged 18 and over. 18+
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Further reading
Frequently asked questions
What happens to money in my account when I self-exclude?
Self-exclusion does not automatically close the account or move the money. Any balance stays in the account until the exclusion ends or the site's policy allows a withdrawal. You should contact the site's support team to ask about recovering a balance before self-excluding.
Can I self-exclude from all gambling sites at once?
No, you must self-exclude from each site separately. However, GAMSTOP is a national scheme that blocks access to all licensed gambling sites in Great Britain with one application, which is far more effective than individual self-exclusions.
How do I know if someone I care about has self-excluded?
You would not know unless they told you. Self-exclusion is private and between the person and the gambling site. If someone mentions they have self-excluded, it is a sign they recognise a problem; supporting them and encouraging them to seek help gives them the best chance of change.
Children and Families Editorial Team