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What Happens When Gamstop Ends?

Gamstop is a self-exclusion program in the UK that helps people take a break from online gambling. It works by blocking registered users from online casino sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Once registered, you can’t cancel your Gamstop self-exclusion until its time frame is completed.

When the Gamstop period ends, you regain access to all UK-licensed gambling sites. Now, you have to choose if you want to extend your exclusion period or start gambling again. However, it’s essential to analyse and monitor your gambling habits and ask yourself if you’re ready to gamble again before making the decision.

If you decide to gamble again, remember that there is help available to keep your gambling habits in control, such as setting deposit limits and continuing with support groups or therapy.

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Written by
Uswa Iftikhar
12 Aug 2025
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Reviewed by
Okpala Stella Jessica
What Is Gamstop
How Long Does Gamstop Last
Types Of Gamblers
Gambling Restrictions UK

How Long Does Gamstop Last?

Gamstop offers 3 flexible self-exclusion durations to suit the needs and requirements of different types of players. The available periods for self-exclusion are 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years. Once you select a period, you can only change it once the exclusion ends.

After the chosen period expires, the self-exclusion will remain until you contact Gamstop to lift it. This step ensures that you are fully ready to manage your gambling behaviour responsibly before regaining access to online casino sites.

How to Know that Gamstop Ended?

When your self-exclusion period expires, Gamstop will notify you using the contact details you provided during registration. They can send a notification via email, SMS, or phone call. You can then contact Gamstop to end or extend the exclusion period according to your current gambling habits.

What to do When Gamstop Exclusion Ends?

When Gamstop exclusion ends, you should reflect on your gambling habits, monitor your gambling activities, extend your exclusion period or start gambling again, and seek support if needed.

These steps are described below.

  1. 1
    Reflect on Your Gambling Habits
    Take time to evaluate your gambling patterns and behaviours. Consider whether your previous exclusion was effective and if any underlying issues remain unresolved. This reflection will help you understand if you are ready to begin gambling again and address any potential problems.
  2. 2
    Extend Your Exclusion Period or Start Gambling Again
    Decide whether you want to end or extend your Gamstop exclusion period if you feel that you need more time to address your gambling issues. You can extend your exclusion and try playing on non Gamstop casinos to see if your gambling habits are in control or not. If you choose to resume gambling, be cautious and aware of the potential risks.
  3. 3
    Monitor Your Gambling Activities
    Monitor your gambling activities closely if you choose to return to gambling. Set limits on the amount of time and money you spend at online casinos, and regularly review your gambling behaviour. This monitoring can help prevent a relapse into problematic gambling.
  4. 4
    Seek Support If Needed
    If you find it challenging to manage your gambling or notice signs of relapse, seek support from professionals or support groups. This can provide you with additional tools and resources to maintain control over your gambling habits.

FAQs

Is it possible to get around Gamstop?

No, it is not possible to bypass Gamstop if you registered for a self-exclusion period. However, you can find non Gamstop casinos that operate outside of the UK regulatory framework.

Can I permanently remove myself from Gamstop?

No, once you are registered with Gamstop, you cannot permanently remove yourself from the system. The minimum exclusion period is six months, and after it ends, you can choose to either extend your exclusion or resume gambling.

Can I gamble again after Gamstop ends?

Yes, you can resume gambling after your Gamstop exclusion period ends. However, it is essential to make this decision after thorough consideration. Reflect on your gambling habits, set limits, and monitor your activities closely to prevent relapse. Consider extending your exclusion or seeking support if you have concerns about your gambling behavior.