The Professional Darts Players Association’s partnership with GAMSTOP helps to raise awareness of the tools available to those wishing to self-exclude from online gambling.

What is GAMSTOP?
GAMSTOP is the free, independent scheme that enables you to self-exclude from all UK- licensed online gambling operators.
Since launching in April 2018, more than 180,000 people have registered with GAMSTOP.

What is self-exclusion, and how effective is it?
Self-exclusion is a tool for those who may feel they have a problem with their gambling, and want to exercise greater control and put safety nets in place.

GAMSTOP works best when applied with other practical tools, including Gamban which is device blocking software and bank merchant code blocking software. Software can now be downloaded that blocks users from receiving gambling adverts, and many banks offer blocks which prevent users from making transactions with gambling sites.

Is self-exclusion a solution to my gambling problems?
No, self-exclusion is not a ‘silver bullet’ that can solve your problems. Self-exclusion and blocking software can give you crucial breathing space, but you should always seek treatment if you feel that you or a loved one have a problem with gambling.

How do I begin the process of self-excluding through GAMSTOP?
1) Visit the GAMSTOP website and click the Get Started button: https://www.gamstop.co.uk/
2) Verify your email address.
3) Fill out a registration form, containing your post code, date of birth and other key information. You must also select an exclusion period of six months, one year, or five years. You cannot remove your exclusion period until the minimum time registered has been met.
4) Answer identification questions.
5) You will receive an email confirming that your registration has been successful, and enabling you to set up an account.
Will I still receive marketing emails once I have self-excluded?
Once you have registered with GAMSTOP you will be removed from gambling operators direct marketing lists so direct emails should stop. You will, of course, still see social media advertising, adverts and other non-direct type of advertising so we would recommend that you put adblockers in place too.
What happens when my self-exclusion period expires?
If you do not request for your self-exclusion period to be lifted, it will automatically continue.

Key resources:
GAMSTOP: https://www.gamstop.co.uk/
Gamban: https://gamban.com/
GamCare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/
National gambling helpline: 0808 8020 133

The partnership with the PDPA entails raising awareness of the self-exclusion tool among its members through practical workshops, internal communications and through both organisations sharing key graphics and information across social media channels to reach players and the general public.

Those who register with GAMSTOP can choose to exclude themselves from every gambling site for a minimum period of six months, one year or five years. They cannot then remove themselves from the scheme until their self-exclusion period has expired, and if they do not contact GAMSTOP, their registration is automatically rolled over for up to seven years.

This builds on the PDPA’s existing gambling education and preventative measures, which include PDPA-funded gambling education and treatment for gambling addiction provided by Sporting Chance.

More than 160,000 people have already registered with GAMSTOP, which also works closely with gambling charities. Anyone who contacts the service, either through the website or by calling the helpline, is referred to specialist advisors if they need additional help and support with their gambling issues.

PDPA Chairman Peter Manley said:

“The PDPA is committed to the wellbeing of our players and we recognise the importance of prevention, education and treatment of gambling problems, including addiction.

“Our partnership with GAMSTOP enables us to raise awareness to our members of a practical tool that helps many people protect themselves from the dangers of online gambling.”

Fiona Palmer, chief executive of GAMSTOP, said:

“We at GAMSTOP are already impressed with the work the PDPA is doing in training, and so we’re thrilled that GAMSTOP can now be added to their offering as a practical tool.

Both organisations share a commitment to protecting and educating those who need help, and we look forward to this partnership ensuring we can reach more people.”

To begin the process of self-excluding from online gambling sites in the UK, please visit: https://www.gamstop.co.uk/