Gambling addiction is a serious issue that affects many people worldwide. In the UK, one of the measures put in place to help problem gamblers is GamStop. It is a self-exclusion tool that allows players to limit their access to online gambling sites. One of the most common questions asked by players who sign up for GamStop is how long the exclusion period lasts.
According to the information available online, the GamStop exclusion period can last for six months, one year, or five years. Players can choose the duration of their self-exclusion period based on their discretion. Once the minimum exclusion period has ended, players must contact GamStop to have the ban lifted. However, it is important to note that the exclusion period may continue for an additional seven years if players do not contact GamStop after the initial ban.
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Duration of Gamstop
How long does Gamstop last?
Gamstop offers users three options for self-exclusion duration. These options are:
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 5 years
Once a user has selected a duration, they will not be able to access any gambling sites that are registered with Gamstop. The self-exclusion period will start immediately after the user has confirmed their selection.
Can Gamstop be lifted?
Once the minimum self-exclusion period has passed, users can contact Gamstop to have their self-exclusion lifted. However, it is important to note that Gamstop will not automatically lift the self-exclusion after the minimum period has passed. Users must contact Gamstop themselves to have their self-exclusion lifted.
It is also important to note that if a user has selected a 1-year self-exclusion period, they will not be able to lift the self-exclusion before the year is up. However, users can extend their self-exclusion period if they wish to continue their self-exclusion beyond the initial period they selected.
Overall, the duration of Gamstop self-exclusion periods are designed to help users take a break from gambling and reassess their habits. Users should carefully consider which self-exclusion period is best suited for their needs before making their selection.
Understanding Gamstop
What is Gamstop?
Gamstop is a self-exclusion scheme that allows people to exclude themselves from online gambling sites licensed in the UK. It was launched in 2018 and is operated by the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited. The aim of Gamstop is to help people who have a problem with gambling to take a break from it and get their lives back on track.
How does Gamstop work?
Gamstop works by allowing people to exclude themselves from online gambling sites for a set period of time. This can be six months, one year, or five years. Once a person has signed up for Gamstop, they will be unable to access any online gambling sites that are licensed in the UK. The exclusion applies to all devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones.
To sign up for Gamstop, a person needs to provide some personal information, including their name, date of birth, and email address. They will also need to choose the length of the exclusion period. Once they have completed the sign-up process, Gamstop will notify all UK licensed online gambling sites that the person has chosen to exclude themselves. The gambling sites will then remove the person’s details from their marketing databases and prevent them from accessing their services.
It is important to note that Gamstop only applies to online gambling sites that are licensed in the UK. It does not apply to land-based casinos or other forms of gambling, such as the National Lottery. People who are excluded from online gambling sites through Gamstop can still access these other forms of gambling if they wish to do so.
Alternatives to Gamstop
Are there any alternatives to Gamstop?
Yes, there are alternatives to Gamstop that individuals can use to self-exclude from online gambling sites. Some of these alternatives include:
- Self-exclusion at individual gambling sites: Many online gambling sites offer their own self-exclusion programs, which can be used in addition to or instead of Gamstop. This can be helpful for individuals who want to self-exclude from specific sites rather than all sites.
- Blocking software: There are various software programs available that can block access to online gambling sites. These programs can be installed on a computer or mobile device and can be customized to block specific sites or types of sites.
- Support groups: There are various support groups available for individuals struggling with problem gambling. These groups can provide emotional support, advice, and resources to help individuals overcome their addiction.
What are the pros and cons of using alternatives to Gamstop?
Using alternatives to Gamstop can have both advantages and disadvantages. Some pros of using alternatives include:
- More control: Using individual site self-exclusion or blocking software can give individuals more control over their self-exclusion. They can choose which sites to block and how long to block them for.
- More options: Using alternatives to Gamstop can provide individuals with more options for self-exclusion. For example, they may be able to use a combination of individual site self-exclusion and blocking software to create a customized self-exclusion plan.
However, there are also some cons to using alternatives, including:
- Limited protection: Using individual site self-exclusion or blocking software may not provide the same level of protection as Gamstop. Individuals may still be able to access some gambling sites or may be able to find ways around the blocking software.
- Lack of support: Using alternatives to Gamstop may not provide the same level of emotional support and resources as Gamstop. Individuals may need to seek out support groups or other resources on their own.
Overall, individuals should carefully consider their options when it comes to self-exclusion from online gambling sites. They should weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the option that is best for their individual needs and situation.
Conclusion
GamStop is a self-exclusion scheme that allows players to take a break from online gambling. The duration of GamStop can be set by the player, with options of six months, one year, or five years. Once a player has set up GamStop, they will no longer be able to place bets on any gambling website that participates in the scheme.
GamStop is not completely foolproof, but it is a useful tool for those who need to take a break from gambling. It is important to note that if a player does not contact GamStop to remove the self-exclusion scheme, after the end of the self-exclusion period, an additional 7-year period is automatically added.
Players should also be aware that during the self-exclusion period, if any betting on telephone numbers with the GamCare service, this data will be shared with GamCare and stored for up to 30 days. It is also important to note that there may be some problems that players could face once the GamStop period has ended.
Overall, GamStop is an effective tool in controlling the adverse effects of online gambling. It is important for players to take responsibility for their own gambling habits and use GamStop if they need to take a break from gambling.
