On this page, we will explain what self-exclusion is. We will address multi self-exclusion and explain how it helps customers control their betting. We will also explain how to complete a self-exclusion gambling form. Additionally, we will consider alternatives and how to remove the gambling self-exclusion.
What is Self-Exclusion?
Self-exclusion is one of the most powerful and responsible gambling tools that betting sites offer to their customers. It amounts to self-banning from accessing a site. Alternatively, you may be able to apply it to just one area of a website or multiple different sites.
If you are struggling to control your betting, you should consider self-exclusion. Similarly, if you are betting more than you can afford, you should also think about applying self-exclusion.
How to Set Up a Self-Exclusion at a UK Betting Site
Self-exclusion (online gambling) is easy to set up. Due to UK regulations, all legal UK betting sites must offer this option to their customers. Generally, you will find all safer gambling tools in the “My account” area of the site. If you cannot find the gambling area responsible for the site, you can ask customer support for help.
Self-exclusion forms the most severe measure you can take. If you decide you want an extended break from betting, it is a good option. All you have to do is navigate to the self-exclusion form. Here you will find a range of options. However, these will vary according to the site.
Most betting sites will offer you the option to exclude yourself for a period of between six months and five years. However, some sites may offer a shorter minimum or a longer maximum. The best sites will allow you to attach this action to one or more specific areas of the site, rather than the entire bookie. For example, you may opt to self-exclude from the casino but not the sportsbook. On the other hand, some self-exclusion will include not just the whole website, but partner brands/sites too.
How Long Can a Self-Exclusion Last?
Generally speaking, the minimum period you can exclude yourself for is six months. The maximum tends to be five years. However, you may have other options, including taking a break for six weeks, right up to a permanent account closure. Generally, tools other than self-exclusion cover breaks shorter than six months.
How to Register for a Multi Self-Exclusion from Gambling?
The self-exclusion meaning we have talked about so far refers to “banning” yourself from one site or network of brands. However, if you want to self-exclude from all betting, you can do that through multi self-exclusion.
All UK-licensed betting websites are legally required to support GAMSTOP. Indeed, many will offer this tool when you access the safe gambling area. Note that some sites list it as responsible gambling, gambling controls or a similar alternative.
GAMSTOP is a quick, simple way you can self-exclude from all legal betting sites in the UK. Just visit GAMSTOP and complete the short self-exclusion gambling form. Next, you will need to provide photo ID. You can select to apply GAMSTOP for between six months and five years. However, you can extend it beyond five years. Moreover, you need to manually remove the exclusion once it has expired; otherwise, it will automatically continue for a further seven years.
GAMSTOP is free and easy and covers all legal UK bookies, casinos, poker rooms, and bingo sites. Indeed, it covers all sites licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). However, there is a range of alternatives that you can use instead.
Alternatives to GAMSTOP
These other multi self-exclusion services cover land-based, bricks-and-mortar betting premises. MOSES deals with high street betting shops, SENSE is a casino-specific option, BISES deals with physical bingo halls, and BACTA is best for “arcades”. Additionally, SmartEXCLUSION is useful for both high street bingo centres and adult gaming centres.
On top of that, there are a host of online blockers. You can use these in addition to GAMSTOP. Generally, they are device-based, so you apply them to your phone, tablet or computer. Some of these, such as BetBlocker, are entirely free. They can provide additional protection from unlicensed sites and “gambling adjacent” areas like trading or crypto.
How to Remove or End a Self-Exclusion Period
Self-exclusion cannot be removed until the preset period has expired. It is designed to help those who feel they are addicted. Therefore, the ability to remove it would negate its benefits. If you believe you may want to remove a ban, you should opt for a softer tool. Many sites offer a range of cooling-off periods and shorter time-outs. Alternatively, you may opt for a deposit limit because you can amend these, subject to a 24-hour delay. However, if you feel you are addicted, we strongly advise you to consider self-exclusion.
Venue-Based Self-Exclusion (Offline Betting Shops, Casinos)
If you want to self-exclude from offline betting as well as online, there are a range of multi-operator tools. These cover casinos, betting shops, bingo halls and adult arcades. As detailed above, schemes such as MOSES (Multi Operator Self Exclusion Scheme) allow bettors to self-exclude from several bookmakers in their local area.
The equivalent for casinos is SENSE (Self Enrolment National Self Exclusion). This scheme covers all licensed land-based casinos in Great Britain. Generally, these tools can be applied by visiting the relevant website.
Alternatives to Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion is a very useful tool if you have lost control of your gambling. However, if you feel things have not yet gone that far and simply want greater control over your betting, several alternatives to self-exclusion may help. Equally, there is one option that is even more severe than standard self-exclusion.
Permanent Account Closure
Permanent account closure is recommended if you are sure you never want to use your account again. It is final and permanent, and you will no longer be able to access any of your account details.
Cooling-off Period
A cooling-off period is a shorter-term option compared to self-exclusion. Generally, you can set them for between one day and six weeks. However, this may vary between sites. You may also see it referred to by a different name, for example, a time-out. Normally, you will not have access to your account at this time. Therefore, you will not be able to deposit or gamble, though you may be able to withdraw funds by contacting customer support.
Once you have activated a time-out/cool-off, you cannot cancel it. Therefore, you will not be able to access your account until the time has passed.
Time Limits or Reality Checks
These tools are good as a first port of call where you have concerns about your gambling. Generally, a reality check (also called a reminder or gaming time reminder) will be a pop-up informing you how long you have been playing. UKGC regulations mean these occur after one hour of casino gaming. However, you can use your responsible gaming tools to make them appear more frequently. Sites generally offer these tools for casino/games, not sports betting.
A time limit is a firmer control that some sites offer. Also called a play break, you can set these for various lengths. For example, you might set one every hour, or every 90 minutes. You can then choose how long the break will be. Generally, you can choose to pause for between one hour and four hours, but this varies between sites. During these enforced breaks, you cannot deposit or gamble.
Self Exclusion FAQs
Where can I find a self-exclusion form on my betting site?
Self-exclusion will be in the responsible gambling section of a betting site. This may be called safer gambling or gambling controls. You can access it through “My account”.
How do I remove self-exclusion?
If you have applied a self-exclusion to your account (as opposed to a time-out or cooling-off period), you cannot remove or reduce it. You can only remove self-exclusion once the time you chose has elapsed.
Can I self-exclude only from a certain product or platform?
Some sites offer self-exclusion from specific areas of their site, such as casinos or poker rooms. However, some betting websites only facilitate whole-site exclusion.
What are the advantages of self-exclusion from gambling?
Self-exclusion can offer a way out for anyone who thinks they may be addicted to gambling. If you are struggling to control your betting, we recommend that you seek help. Self-exclusion, especially multiple self-exclusions through sites like GAMSTOP, can be life-changing for problem gamblers.