Take a Break from Gambling

Last updated : 16th January 2026

Betting and gambling can be an enjoyable activity, both on your own and with friends, but if you feel that gambling is beginning to take over your life, then maybe it's time to take a break.

Like any addiction, recognising you may have a problem is the first step in protecting yourself, your friends, and family, so taking a break from gambling is a great way to stay in control, and thanks to the UK's strict regulations around gambling, all licensed Bookmakers and Casino must offer players tools to help them self exclude and take time out from gambling.

A bit like Safer Gambling Tools (see our article here), 'Self Exclusion' tools offer players several different ways to step back from gambling, block access to gambling sites, and take control of potential problems before they arise.

Each of these tools is quick and easy to use, so let's take a look at how you can take a break from gambling.

1. Cooling-Off Periods

A cooling-off period allows you to take a short break from gambling, usually ranging from 24 hours to several weeks.

During a cooling-off period:

• You cannot place bets or play games
• You may still be able to withdraw funds
• Marketing communications are usually paused

This option is ideal if gambling is starting to feel stressful rather than enjoyable.

2. Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger step for those who feel they need a longer break from gambling, or a complete freeze on their accounts.  Self-Exclusion can be completed in one of several ways, which we will explain below :

2.1 Operator Self-Exclusion

Most gambling sites allow you to self-exclude from their platform for set periods of time, for example

• 1 month
• 6 months
• 12 months
• 1 year or more

During this time, you won’t be able to access your account, deposit or withdraw money, place a bet, or create a new one.

2.2 GAMSTOP (National Self-Exclusion Scheme)

GAMSTOP is a free UK-wide self-exclusion scheme that blocks access to all participating UK-licensed online gambling sites in one step.

You can choose to self-exclude for:

• 6 months
• 1 year
• 5 years

This is one of the most effective tools for people who want full protection across multiple sites, with the peace of mind that once you have set the GAMSTOP exclusion period, your accounts will be completely blocked, and with over 170 UK bookmakers, Casinos, and gambling operators working with GAMSTOP, it is one of the most complete tools available for people who want to self-exclude.

3. Blocking Software and Banking Tools

In addition to operator-based tools, UK gamblers can utilise a range of external safeguards, including :

• Gambling blocking software, such as BetBlocker, GamBlock, and NetNanny (available for PC/Tablets/Phones)
• Bank gambling blocks, available from many UK banks, both in branch and via telephone banking
• App-level restrictions on phones and tablets (both Android and iOS)

 

These tools add extra layers of protection, outside of the 'Safer Gambling Tools' offered by UK-regulated bookmakers and casinos

Key Points to Remember :

• Self-exclusion tools allow you to take a break from gambling
• All licensed UK Bookmakers and Casinos must offer Self-Exclusion tools - if they don't, don't gamble with them
• Self-Exclusion tools are free to use
• Taking control of your gambling habits is the key first step to protecting yourself, your friends, and your family
• If self-exclusion is not working, look for additional layers of protection by using blocking software, or speak to your bank to block payments to gambling sites