IBAS: Independent Betting Adjudication Service
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Help and support – financial concerns and gambling harms

We know that for some gambling can result in different forms of financial and emotional hardship. IBAS is often asked whether we can help recover gambling losses. That is not currently part of the service we offer. We focus on the question of whether gambling is conducted in a fair and reasonable manner. We make no moral judgement on gambling, and in the absence of any clear and unequivocal laws which impose a structured and defined duty of care on gambling businesses to protect their customers, we do not feel we are able to say whether there is a case for losses to be refunded.

There is nothing to stop you writing to the business to set out your personal circumstances and asking them to consider whether they accept that they could or should have done more to help you. Beyond that, if you want to pursue the issue further, we can only advise that you seek experienced and specialist legal advice.

When gambling has caused financial harm, many people will focus on seeking to recover the money they have lost. We understand this, but we would also recommend thinking about what you can do to stop anything similar happening again in the future.

There are a number of confidential support services that provide free, specialist help and advice. There are also other tools that might be able to help, including placing banking blocks on gambling websites and free software which prevents you accessing websites and apps.

Here are some other tips that may help you in this situation:

  • Write down any information or evidence related to the dispute
  • Review the company’s rules or terms and make note of any conflicts or misleading information
  • Stay patient and avoid sending multiple emails or making threats, as this can slow down the process
  • Consider seeking advice from a local Citizens Advice Bureau or legal professional if needed
  • Be polite and reasonable when communicating with any parties involved, including IBAS.

We’ve listed a few additional suggestions below:

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Talk to someone

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If you’re facing financial difficulty, it’s important to reach out for help. Keeping such important matters to yourself is not the best solution. Whether you have a trusted friend or family member to confide in, or not, there are resources available to you.

The Samaritans are always available to listen, 24/7. You can reach them at 116 123 for a confidential and free conversation. More information on their support services can be found here.

If you’re struggling with gambling or seeking support for a loved one, the National Gambling Helpline is a great resource. They offer anonymous, specialist advice and are available for a confidential and free call at 0808 8020 133. They also offer a live chat alternative for those who may find it easier to talk. More information on their support services, including group chat options, can be found at here.

Use online help tools

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If you’re struggling with gambling, help is available. Gamble Aware’s National Gambling Support Network is here for you, offering advice, resources, and real-life examples of recovery. Their website provides a wealth of information and support, including the free Gambleaware Support Tool App.

Self-excluding from gambling websites

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Take control of your gambling with the help of various tools offered by gambling websites. Options such as deposit limits, time-out periods, and self-exclusion are available to help you manage your spending.

Self-exclusion allows you to request that the website refrain from allowing you to access and gamble on their site for a predetermined time.

For even greater control, utilize GAMSTOP, a one-stop website for self-exclusion from all UK licensed gambling websites. Learn more about GAMSTOP at their official website.

Blocking Access to gambling websites

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By using these software tools, you can protect yourself from the temptation of gambling and focus on managing your finances and wellbeing. It’s important to take proactive steps towards recovery and these software tools can be a valuable resource.

Betblocker: https://betblocker.org/

Gamban: https://gamban.com/

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Ask your bank about blocking gambling transactions

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Many UK banks now provide their customers with the option to block gambling transactions on their debit card or bank account, helping individuals stay in control of their spending and minimise any potential harm from gambling.

To find out if this service is available to you, simply check your bank’s website, use their app, or contact their customer service helpline. If it’s not an option for you, you may want to consider switching to a bank that offers this valuable resource.

Further information for everything you need to know about bank gambling blocks can be found here. 

Explore the treatment options available to you

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The NHS now has a website devoted to the help that is available to those who suffer from gambling related problems:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/gambling-addiction/

The Gamcare website offers an interactive map providing links to your closest treatment services:
https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/find-local-treatment/

Gordon Moody offers residential treatment programmes among other types of support. You can read more about them here:
https://gordonmoody.org.uk/treatment-options/

Most importantly

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If you’re struggling, talk, reach out. Get help.

Remember, you are not alone and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

There is a wide range of resources and support available to help you get back on track. Don’t hesitate to take that first step and reach out for help.

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