We’re here to help
Gambling can be an enjoyable leisure activity when done in moderation. However, for some it can get out of control and cause harm. This is when it starts to have a negative impact on your finances, relationships, health or work. If you feel your gambling or someone else’s gambling may be causing you harm, there is help available.Ìý
Signs your gambling may be causing harm to you, or someone close to you:
- You’re struggling to pay for the basics – such as rent or your mortgage, bills, food and other essential costs, as you’ve spent your money on gambling.
- Your debt has increased due to your gambling spend.
- You feel stressed or worried about the impact gambling is having on your finances, relationships or health.
- You may be spending significant time on gambling or hiding your gambling from others.
- You start to withdraw from other people or activities.
If you are worried about how gambling is impacting you, there are steps you can take to help yourself:
- Pay your important bills as soon as possible after pay day, so you’re less likely to gamble that money.
- Think about planning other things to do at times when you might be tempted to gamble (such as sporting activities or seeing friends who don’t gamble, for example).
- Don’t bottle up your concerns: Talk to someone, whether it’s a friend, a family member, a colleague or a professional.
- If you have a Santander credit card, you won’t be able to use this card for any gambling transactions. We’ll block most gambling payments you make with your card.Ìý
- If you have a Santander debit Mastercard, you can block gambling transactions in the Mobile Banking app. See our Card Controls mobile banking guide to see a step-by-step guide.ÌýThis will block most gambling payments you make with your card. There’s a time delay on our gambling block which means that gambling transactions will still be blocked for 48 hours after you request to remove the gambling block. The decision to gamble can sometimes be an impulsive one, so the time delay will give you a little more time to reflect.
- If you have a debit or cash card, we can reduce your daily cash withdrawal limit at the cash machine from the standard £300 to £0 or £60. This may help you to reduce access to cash when you may need it. To arrange this, please speak with us in branch or call us
Ìý
What other help is out there?
Gambling and debt
Gambling can have a negative impact on your finances. Some people may find that their gambling causes an increase in their debts. Gambling should not be seen as a way to make money or pay off your debts. If you’re worried about the impact gambling is having on your finances, look at our if finances are a struggle page for help and support. This page explains the steps you can take to manage your finances.
Ìý
Independent organisations
If gambling is affecting you or someone close to you, help is available.
Ìý
GamCare
GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline. You can get free and confidential support 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
You can:
call 0808 8020 133
chat online at
GamCare can:
- listen without judgement
- help you understand your options
- put you in touch with other support services
- show you tools that may help you stop or reduce gambling
Ìý
Find out more at
Ìý
GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP is a free self-exclusion service.
When you sign up, you won't be able to use online gambling accounts with licensed gambling companies in Great Britain for the time period you choose.
You can find out more or register at
Ìý
Blocking software
Blocking software can stop you accessing gambling websites and apps. Many people find it helpful when they want to reduce or stop gambling.
There are 2 main types:
Gambling-blocking software, which blocks gambling websites and apps.
Parental control software, which blocks a wider range of websites and online content.
Some services are free. Others charge a fee.
Ìý
BetBlocker
Free gambling-blocking software.
Find out more at
Ìý
Gamblock
Find out more at
Ìý
Gamban
Find out more at
Ìý
Net Nanny
Net Nanny is parental control software.
It can help block gambling websites and other online content.
Find out more at
Ìý