“I was carrying a weight I hadn’t chosen to take on.”

My name is Mavia, and I’m a co-founder and Technical Business Manager at Gamban. I have lived experience as an “affected other.”Today, an estimated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/policy/publications/out-of-luck-an-exploration-of-the-causes-and-impacts-of-problem-gambling/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">4.3 million people in Great Britain</a> are classified as "affected others," people harmed not by their own choices but by someone else's. They are invisible in the data, and they don't show up in the headlines. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/gambling">The World Health Organisation</a> estimates that for every one person experiencing serious gambling harm, an average of six others are affected. This is for the others.My father was a senior banker in Pakistan. Respected in his profession, well regarded by those around him. At home, he was far from the man people knew professionally.  When he arrived home from work, he would make excuses and leave the house. Sometimes he wouldn't come home at all. I'd ask my mum where he was, and she didn't always have an answer.When I think back, I feel a sense of fear and emptiness, but at the time, I couldn’t put into words what I was experiencing. I remember the empty chair at dinner and the muffled arguments after bedtime. I was experiencing what psychologists have termed “pervasive loss”; it wasn’t just the financial instability, it was the loss of trust and safety.I was carrying a weight I hadn't chosen to take on.When I was nine years old, my parents had a serious falling out. My mother took us to my grandparents' house on the other side of the city, and we stayed there for five months.The change was overwhelming, and I felt torn apart.I missed months of school, I couldn’t see my father, and I didn’t know exactly what was happening, but I was aware this had something to do with my father’s gambling.Looking back, I remember feeling envious of the other children going to school and coming home to both parents.After five months, things went back to normal for a while, and the family was reunited at home, but I was still trying to make sense of what had been happening. What was my father up to? Where was he going? My father wasn’t a smoker, but whenever he came back, he would smell of tobacco. What was more important than spending time with his family?I followed my father to a nondescript building just off a residential street. I couldn’t make out what was going on inside this building, but I got a glimpse of people playing cards with piles of cash on the tables. I saw him go through that door many times.It transpired that places like this existed openly because of who protected them, people in positions of power who ensured they were never touched.When I was eleven, I confronted my father, and he told me this was somewhere he went to “see his friends.” I didn’t believe him. I knew deep inside he wasn’t just seeing friends.I didn’t want my father to leave, so I used to stand in front of the door to stop him from going, but eventually he found he could get his way by giving me money to play at the gaming shops, where I would sometimes play into the early morning.My father’s addiction had quietly begun to create an addiction in me. My grades dropped, and I was disappearing into screens the same way he disappeared behind that door.At eighteen years old, my parents divorced. My mother, one of my greatest role models, held the family together. At twenty years old, I found valuable mentorship while working at the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation. This helped to fill a space my father had left. I watched how they worked, how they led and how they carried themselves under pressure. I discovered the qualities I wanted as a man. When I was twenty-one, I started a design agency called 4Slash.I was determined to channel my energy and the skills I had developed from my mentors at the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation. Growing my business, helping clients and offering employment energised me as a person and a professional.At its apex, 4Slash had a total of 27 employees and supported more than 200 clients.One of these clients was <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/jack-symons-story">Jack</a>. He had a prototype for a basic hosts file MacOS app that restricted access to gambling and needed help in turning it into a product that other people could access. Other products existed for Windows computers, but nothing worked on MacOS. I didn’t quite understand the scale of what he was looking to achieve with Gamban, but I did understand the need for it – both the person struggling with addiction and the child in the next room.I’ve always believed that if Gamban helps just one relationship between parent and child, then I’ve achieved something that I can feel proud of. I found my purpose, but I never found my father. We never properly reconciled. To this day, our conversations, when they happen, are purely superficial. We share no references or family memories.I have two children, aged six and seven, and there is nothing in this world I want more than to be part of their lives. That feeling, that pull towards your own child, is what makes my father's absence so hard to reconcile. He had the choice. I understand now, more than ever, what it costs a child when that choice goes the wrong way. If You're Reading This, Dad…This isn't about blame or shame.I know addiction is not a simple choice. I know there was a version of you that wanted things to be different. What I want you to know is that I took everything I carried growing up and turned it into something. The missing years, the distance, the weight; all of it became the reason I do this work.Every family Gamban supports is where your story and mine meet.I don't hate you; I never did.And to anyone reading this who recognises their own life in mine: the weight you are carrying is not yours to keep forever.If you or someone you know is affected by gambling, visit<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com"> </a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">gamban.com</a>

Mavia Siddiqui | Co-Founder Story

A personal story from Gamban co-founder Mavia on growing up as an “affected other” - and how gambling harm impacts families, not just individuals.

And how you can help

If you’re following Gamban across socials, you may have noticed our ongoing support for the campaign to end greyhound racing in England.We see the harm which gambling causes every day, and not just to humans. Greyhounds are abused to the benefit of the gambling industry, and many people don't know what happens behind closed doors. Public pressure can help change policy and save thousands of greyhounds. That’s why we have joined the Greyhound Freedom UK coalition alongside animal welfare groups. Last week, an event in Parliament <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.league.org.uk/news-and-resources/news/new-report-calls-for-a-ban-on-greyhound-racing-in-england/">launched a joint report</a> by GREY2K and the League Against Cruel Sports. The event was attended by Gamban co-founder Matt Zarb-Cousin and Hannah Spencer MP, who <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/apr/18/green-mp-hannah-spencer-labour-caricatures-working-class-people-over-greyhounds-ban">spoke to The Guardian</a> about the campaign.<figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/678a0d5e-f76b-4282-90b1-313f19bd29f3.jpg" /></figure><h3>What you need to know</h3><ul><li>Since 2017, the Greyhound Board of Great Britain has reported an average of 4,400 injuries and 169 deaths per year on UK tracks.</li><li>Most racing greyhounds spend up to 95% of their time in cages, with substandard kennel conditions common.</li><li>An additional 3,278 greyhounds have been killed for economic reasons or because they were deemed unsuitable for homing.</li><li>The Greyhound Board of Great Britain contributes less than half the funding required to treat and place retired greyhounds. Adopters bear the cost.</li></ul>Dogs are beloved pets across thousands of homes, so why should greyhounds be any different? <h3>Henry’s Story</h3>"My name is Henry, I am an 8-month-old Greyhound boy with 3 legs. I was looking for a forever home after being taken to be put to sleep when my leg was smashed.”Henry's former owner was a GBGB-licensed greyhound trainer, who appeared to lash out in temper at one of her other dogs at a British greyhound track whilst in full view of the cameras and spectators. This gives an indication to the kind of treatment they endure behind closed doors. Henry is now in his forever home with Lorraine, who said:“A veterinary nurse who worked at the surgery had asked for Henry's life to be spared on condition that she would find him a space at a rescue centre. We were just strangers to Henry, but he put his full trust in us to help him recover from his trauma.”Due to the extent of the damage to his leg, he needed a 2nd operation, which would shorten the stump even further. He’s 9 years old now, and his disability has not held him back. He continues to love life and lives it to the full.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sighthoundwelfare.org/henry-s-story">Source: Sight Hound Welfare</a><h3>What happens after their racing career?</h3>Greyhounds typically race until they are 4 to 6 years old. Every year <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.aagr.org.uk/2020/09/07/injuries-death/#:~:text=Excluding%20the%20severe%20and%20fatal,insufficient%20number%20of%20available%20homes.">hundreds of greyhounds</a> with treatable injuries are ‘euthanised’ or put to sleep by the greyhound racing industry. Andrew Knight, a Veterinary Professor at Winchester University, points out the misleading use of the word ‘euthanasia’ by the racing industry. By definition, euthanasia refers to killing that is not only humanely conducted, but also in the animal’s best interests – typically due to very severe injury or illness when the prognosis for recovery is poor. However, greyhounds in the racing industry are killed not only for treatable injuries but also due to an insufficient number of available homes.<h3>What does the public think about Greyhound racing?</h3>Many people in the UK see greyhound racing as a ‘bit of fun’ until they see what the dogs actually endure. <figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/Md7NzgYKTtY"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Md7NzgYKTtY" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div></figure>Many people do not know the scale of overbreeding, injury and killing. Public pressure can change policy.<blockquote>Matt Zarb-Cousin, co-founder of Gamban, said: “The gambling industry is propping up a sector that is responsible for the systematic abuse of greyhounds. As well as being a voice for our users and their experiences, we want to raise awareness of the harms that are occurring to these dogs as a result of the gambling industry’s practices. Nothing should be made to suffer in the pursuit of profit.”</blockquote><h3>How can we make a change?</h3>The Welsh and Scottish governments voted last month to phase out the practice. Animal <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/apr/03/keir-starmer-urged-ban-greyhound-racing-england-dogs">welfare groups say thousands of dogs in the UK</a> have died in recent years owing to racing in the “inherently dangerous” sport. If you live in England, you can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamban4greyhounds.com/#write-to-mp">write to your MP.</a> Simply add your details to the form, and a letter will be generated which you can send. Together, we can end greyhound racing.

Why Gamban Has Joined The Campaign To End Greyhound Racing

Gamban supports the campaign to end greyhound racing in England, exposing harm, abuse, and industry practices while urging public action to protect dogs.

Find out how we’re reducing our environmental impact.

Gamban are proud to announce that we are Positive Planet Certified! This means we’ve taken steps to understand and reduce our environmental impact. <h3>What is Positive Planet? </h3>Positive Planet is an organisation that helps businesses become more sustainable through simple, practical steps you can implement across day-to-day operations and compliance.<h3>Why Positive Planet?</h3>Gamban strives to make a positive impact with the work we do, and we also want to ensure this runs through every element of our business. This is why we take things like employee happiness and sustainability seriously. <h3>What do Gamban already do for the planet?</h3>As a business, we already have measures in place which have helped reduce our carbon footprint. <ul><li>Our employees are all remote, removing the need to commute. </li><li>Use of video calls instead of constant travel. </li><li>Laptops over desktops for lower energy consumption.</li><li>Using e-signatures instead of printed contracts.</li><li>Running digital documentation.</li><li>The Gamban app itself is also energy efficient and low-resource.</li></ul><h3>What does Positive Planet certified mean?</h3>To achieve the bronze certification, we have worked with the lovely team at Positive Planet to:<ul><li>Measure our Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.</li><li>Improve the quality of our environmental data.</li><li>Commit to ongoing emissions reductions year-on-year.</li></ul>All of this has been independently reviewed and verified by Positive Planet.We’ve also committed to continuous improvement and have signed off on a carbon reduction plan that sets clear steps to help us improve in the next few years.Huge thanks to the team at Positive Planet for supporting us through the process.

Gamban Is Now Positive Planet Certified

Gamban is now Positive Planet Certified. Discover how we’re reducing our environmental impact, improving sustainability, and committing to ongoing carbon reduction across our business.

What the closure means for you, and how to keep your gambling blocks in place.

TalkBanStop comes to an end on 31st March 2026, meaning that Gamban will move to a subscription service in England and Scotland. Gamban will still be available for free in Wales.Other support is still available across the UK. You can continue to protect yourself with tools like Gamban and access a range of support services, many of which are signposted in our app and at the end of this post.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account">Start your Gamban 7-day free trial.</a><h3>What was TalkBanStop?</h3>TalkBanStop was a partnership between <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">GamCare</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/">Gamban</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">Gamstop</a>, which combined three recovery tools to help you stop gambling.  <ul><li>Gamban blocks access to gambling apps and websites on devices, including the black market</li><li>If you register with GAMSTOP, you exclude yourself from all UK gambling sites for a minimum of 6 months</li><li>GamCare offers free, confidential sessions with a trained advisor</li></ul>We created this partnership because the more layers of protection you put in place to stop you from gambling, the better your chances of recovery.The project has been running since December 2020, and during that time over 100,000 free Gamban licenses have been distributed.<h3>Why has TalkBanStop ended?</h3>Gamban was previously free in the UK through TalkBanStop, which was funded by GambleAware, a charity that has now ceased operations. This year, the UK government’s Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) oversaw the distribution of funding and decided to exclude Gamban on the basis of its entity being a limited company.This was not a reasonable basis to omit the best available gambling blocking software from the commissioning process, and it has forced us to take steps to ensure we can maintain the quality of service our users need.<h3>Will Gamban still be free in the UK?</h3>As a result of OHID’s decision, Gamban can no longer be provided for free in England and Scotland. Gamban will still be free for residents of Wales.Those in England or Scotland can get a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account">7-day free trial of Gamban here. </a>Gamban is £4.99 a month or £29.99 a year. You can protect all your devices with a single Gamban license, including phones, laptops, and tablets. Installing Gamban is easy, quick, and we offer support to guide you through it if required.Gamban blocks nearly half a million betting websites and apps, and we are adding to the blocklist every day. This means both licensed and unlicensed sites are blocked with Gamban installed. The protection is designed to be as difficult to remove as possible in order to help prevent relapse.<h3>What this means for you</h3>If you already use Gamban through TalkBanStopIf you signed up to get Gamban free through TalkBanStop, Gamban’s blocking will last until the end of your selected duration. If you are in England or Scotland and wish to continue using Gamban, you will need a subscription. In Wales, Gamban will remain free.If your TalkBanStop licence is coming to an endTo carry on using Gamban, you will need to sign up for a subscription. If you’ve paid for a Gamban subscriptionThis won’t affect your subscription, and you can continue to use your devices as normal while Gamban blocks betting apps and websites in the background. <h3>Is Gamban still available in the UK?</h3>Yes, Gamban is still available throughout the UK.Gamban will still be free in Wales, and if you’re in England or Scotland you can get <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account">a 7-day free trial here. </a><h3>How to switch from a free TalkBanStop license to a subscription</h3>When your license is nearing expiration, you’ll get a prompt to add your billing details to move to a paid plan. <h3>What other resources are out there?</h3><ul><li>If you have gambling debt, there are organisations that can help. Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/">here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/">here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/">GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support, and support with the criminal justice system, available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/">GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm. </li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li><li>Encourage them to listen to podcasts and videos from others who have recovered. This can be a source of inspiration.</li></ul>

Why Is TalkBanStop Ending?

TalkBanStop is ending on 31 March 2026. Learn why the service is closing, what it means for existing users, and how you can still access Gamban and other support to stay in control of your gambling.

Feeling nervous about your first GA meeting? You’re definitely not alone.

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is an online or in-person meeting where those experiencing gambling harm can get together, talk, share or just listen. If you’ve decided you want to try a GA meeting, it might feel a bit daunting. But remember, everyone there will be in the same situation as you. You may have a picture in your mind of a stereotypical attendee of a GA meeting, but the truth is, they are for everyone of all genders, ages and backgrounds. You will likely find a good mix of people in every meeting, so you’ll find someone who you can relate to. There is no need to make an appointment for a meeting, just turn up either virtually or in person whenever you feel ready. If you want to join and just listen, that's okay too. <h3>Why Should I Attend Gamblers Anonymous?</h3>Only you can decide if and when you are ready to attend your first GA. If you feel that your gambling has become harmful, talking to other like-minded people can be helpful.<h3>How do I know if my gambling has become harmful?</h3><ul><li>You are gambling more than you can afford to lose.</li><li>Gambling is often the only thing you think about, and you have little interest in other things.</li><li>It’s negatively affecting relationships with your partner, family and friends.</li><li>It is affecting your work.</li><li>You have done or considered doing something illegal to keep up with your gambling. </li><li>Lying to others to conceal your gambling.</li><li>Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and losing sleep over gambling.</li></ul><h3>Where is Gamblers Anonymous held?</h3>GA meetings can be held both online and in person. <h3>In Person</h3>Most towns and cities will have a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamblersanonymous.org.uk/meeting/">local GA meeting</a>, which you can attend; these are often held at local church halls or community centres. For some, it's easier to open up in person, and it means you don’t need to worry about being overheard at home. <h3>Online</h3>There are also <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamblersanonymous.org.uk/online-meetings/">online meetings</a> running throughout the day, which you can log into. These are usually run via Teams or Google Meet. These often have a location attached, but you don’t need to be from the town or even the country that's in the meeting name. There are often participants from different locations. Online meetings can be really helpful if you don’t feel comfortable showing your face and would just like to listen. This can give you more power and confidence to share in the future. <h3>What to expect at your first Gamblers Anonymous meeting?</h3>There are misconceptions about the session being stuffy and uncomfortable. The reality is that most sessions have plenty of laughs amidst the emotional moments, and a lot of people build a really strong rapport with their group. A Gamblers Anonymous meeting can take several forms, but at any meeting you’ll find:<ul><li>Participants talking about gambling</li><li>How they took action to deal with this</li><li>Other struggles in their life</li><li>Triggers and challenges</li><li>Strategies they find helpful</li><li>How they are living their lives today</li></ul>There may also be readings from GA literature. It doesn’t matter if you are a year clean of gambling or an hour, everyone is welcome. <h3>Is Gamblers Anonymous an ongoing commitment?</h3>Not at all. If you attend a GA meeting and it isn’t for you, that's totally fine. <h3>How much does Gamblers Anonymous Cost?</h3>GA is completely free to attend. <h3>How can Gamblers Anonymous help me?</h3>Addiction can be a very lonely place, and GA is somewhere you can get together and share your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Everyone attending the meetings can relate to each other and are there to listen and support you.Many people attending find that they make friends and connections for life, and build a support system of people that they can also speak to outside of meetings.<h3>Do I have to be religious to attend Gamblers Anonymous? </h3>GA is not a religious organisation.<h3>Different types of meetings in the UK</h3>There are different kinds of meetings, and some meetings are run differently from others. You may find that a topic is chosen that everybody speaks on, but there’s no pressure to stick to it. The meeting is a place to share whatever you need to. Examples of meeting types:Main Meetings <ul><li>Chat and share with other like-minded people. There are no counsellors or professionals, just those experiencing gambling harm.</li></ul>Mixed Meetings <ul><li>These meetings are the same as the main meetings, but family members and friends are welcome to join. </li></ul>Newcomers Meetings <ul><li>These meetings are ideal if you are new to stopping gambling. They are the same as main meetings, but more focused towards newcomers.</li></ul>Step Meetings<ul><li>These meetings are better-suited for those who have abstained from gambling for some time. They are focused on the Twelve Steps of Recovery.</li></ul>Women-preferred Meetings <ul><li>Any compulsive gambler may attend these meetings, but they are more suitable for women.</li></ul>LGBTQ+ Meetings<ul><li>Any compulsive gambler may attend these meetings, but they are more suitable for the LGBTQ+ community.</li></ul>Open Meetings<ul><li>Most Groups hold at least one open meeting each year. These are where compulsive gamblers gather with their friends and families to receive recognition for abstaining from gambling for a number of years.</li></ul><h3>Finding your group</h3>Don’t feel disheartened if the first group you attend doesn’t feel like it fits. It can take a bit of time to find the right group for you. Dan at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedRecovery">Addicted Recovery</a> shares more about his journey finding the right group: I went into recovery assuming all self-help groups were basically the same — that once you’d been to one, you’d seen them all. I was wrong. I committed to 90 meetings in 90 days after coming out of a 20-year gambling addiction that had wrecked my life and hurt the people around me. At first, the meetings simply helped me stay stopped, but they felt mechanical and distant; I didn’t feel particularly seen or understood, and I didn’t connect with most of the people there. Then a few meetings changed everything. Hearing someone share openly and vulnerably about their experience made me realise how powerful the right room can be. The energy, the honesty, even the banter created a sense of safety and belonging I hadn’t felt before. Over time, I found three meetings that truly resonated with me, and those became more than just weekly check-ins - they became a community. We talk every day, support each other through life’s challenges, and understand each other in ways few others can, because we’ve lived the same experiences. What started as a desperate attempt to stop gambling turned into something much bigger: a tribe, a support system, and a place where I genuinely belong. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S62lsfzRwg">Watch the full video here</a>Another long-term female member of GA said: Four years ago, I joined my first Gamblers Anonymous meeting online, terrified. I had an idea of what it would be like — and I was completely wrong.Today, there are more women and more diverse voices in the room than ever. It feels less like a meeting and more like a family.I now even run a group. Recovery gave me community, confidence, and purpose.If you’re nervous about joining your first meeting, you’re not alone. That scary first step might just change everything. <h3>How long should I attend Gamblers Anonymous? </h3>How long someone should attend is totally personal to them. Some may only want to attend a few, whilst others continue to attend long after they last gambled. Some find they have a regular meeting they attend, but also jump into other meetings if they are going through a challenging time and need someone to talk to. One thing remains the same throughout all meetings. This is an open and welcoming space where you can share without feeling judged. You will find people attending warm, inspiring and welcoming. Everyone wants the same goal. No single activity is a quick fix to stop gambling, but GA provides a place where you can connect with others and learn to live without gambling, one day at a time.

What To Expect At Your First Gamblers Anonymous Meeting

Attend your first Gamblers Anonymous meeting with confidence. Learn what to expect, how GA works, meeting types in the UK, and how peer support can help you overcome harmful gambling—online or in person, free and judgement-free.

Clean up your social feeds

If you've made a decision to stop or take a break from gambling, seeing ads splashed across social media can be incredibly frustrating and triggering. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can limit gambling apps across social platforms. On most social apps, if you see a gambling ad, click the three dots and click “not interested” or “report,” which will stop the algorithm showing anything similar to you. A lot of social apps also allow you to mute words, so you can filter unwanted content: Examples<ul><li>gambling</li><li>bet</li><li>betting</li><li>casino</li><li>sportsbook</li><li>bookmaker</li><li>odds</li><li>wager</li><li>slots</li><li>jackpot</li></ul><h3>Facebook</h3>Limit Ads: Navigate to Settings &amp; Privacy &gt; Settings &gt; Meta Accounts Centre&gt; Ad Preferences &gt; Ad Topics &gt; Special Topics, and Deselect "Gambling".<h3>X</h3>Limit Ads: Go to Your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://x.com/settings/your_twitter_data/ads">Privacy Settings</a> &gt; Interests From X &gt; Toggle Off ‘Sports Betting.'Mute Words and Phrases: Settings and Privacy &gt; Privacy and Safety &gt; Mute and Block &gt; Muted Words.<h3>Instagram</h3>Limit Ads: Navigate to Settings and Activity &gt; Accounts Centre &gt; Ad Preferences &gt; Ad Topics &gt; Special Topic &gt; Deselect “gambling.”Mute Words and Phrases: Settings and Activity &gt; Hidden Words.<h3>TikTok</h3>Limit Ads: Navigate to Your Profile &gt; Click the Three Lines in the Right Corner &gt; Settings and Privacy &gt; Ads &gt; Manage Ad Topics &gt; Other &gt; Toggle ‘Real Money Gaming’ off.Mute words and phrases: Settings and Privacy &gt; Content preferences &gt; Filter video keywords.<h3>Bluesky</h3>Unfortunately, Bluesky doesn’t have a specific way to turn off gambling ads.  However, if you see a gambling ad, click the three dots and click “not interested” or “report,” which will stop the algorithm showing similar ads to you. <h3>YouTube</h3>Limit Ads: Go to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://myadcenter.google.com/home">My Ad Centre</a>  &gt; Make Sure Personalised Ads Are Turned on &gt; Customise Ads &gt; Sensitive, Then Toggle "Gambling" to "See Fewer."<h3>Snapchat</h3>Snapchat does not provide a category-level block (e.g., gambling, alcohol, etc.). The only control available is reducing how much data is used to target ads.Instead, if you see a gambling ad, press down to report it, and you will start to see less content like this. <h3>Additional Help</h3>Limiting gambling ads on socials is just one way of reducing temptation. We always recommend a multi-layered approach to help you in recovery.<ul><li>Block access to online gambling with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>. </li><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk/">here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/">here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk/">GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support, and support with the criminal justice system, available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk/">GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm. </li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li></ul>

How To Limit Gambling Ads On Social Media 2026

How to block or reduce gambling ads on social media. Step-by-step settings for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube and more.

“I started gambling at 16 and lost £20k by 20”

My name is Matt Zarb-Cousin. I’m a co-founder of Gamban and now a director focused on external affairs.My introduction to Gamban actually started with a cold message on LinkedIn. A young man called Jack Symons got in touch and said he thought he’d worked out a way to block gambling on Mac devices, which was very difficult to do at the time. I was in recovery from addiction myself at the time, so the idea immediately interested me.We met in a pub in Farringdon, and Jack showed me an early prototype. This is my story. <h3>Matts Story</h3>Gambling addiction nearly destroyed my life. There is no other addiction where the person affected believes that by continuing to engage in the activity they’re addicted to, it can solve all the problems that the addiction has created.My story begins at age 16, when I fell victim to Fixed Odds Betting Terminals. By the time I reached 20, my debts soared to £20,000, and I reached a point of desperation and despair. I really wanted to take my own life. It's difficult to explain, but looking back, I don’t think it was about the money. It was about where the addiction had led me to. All of the things that had happened, the things that I'd missed out on. Gambling had distracted me from my life for so long. The distraction of the gambling addiction helped me escape from the depression caused by its consequences. I could pretend I was normal, I was fine, and that there was nothing wrong with me while I was gambling. But one particular gambling session in 2009 that spanned several hours and resulted in losses of £2,500 led me to the point of wanting to take my own life.Thankfully, my parents intervened before it got to that point, and I was able to receive support and cognitive behavioural therapy, which helped me to eventually quit gambling on my 20th birthday after several relapses. However, years later, I still take medication for my mental health conditions, which I firmly believe were caused by the gambling addiction.I was so affected by my gambling addiction and the impact on my mental health that I wanted to do something to help others who might be in a similar situation.The paradox of this, 15 years on, is that I am now in the privileged position of being able to say that I am actually glad it happened. In the years after quitting, I campaigned for a £2 stake limit on fixed odds betting terminals and in the course of doing so, I spoke publicly in the media countless times about my addiction and the impact these machines had on my life.I was so pleased that the campaign to reduce the stake to £2 on FOBTs was successful, and that government policy is now much more reflective of the impact similar online products can have on rates of gambling harm.I am also privileged to work with a fantastic team at Gamban. Over the past decade, we’ve gradually expanded the product's reach and the team, and the app has now surpassed 1 million downloads. My personal mission is to help as many people who want to quit gambling as possible, whether that’s through technological solutions or policy changes.

Matt Zarb-Cousin | Co-Founder Story

Matt Zarb-Cousin shares his personal journey from gambling addiction and £20,000 in debt to recovery, campaigning for safer gambling laws, and co-founding Gamban to help others quit gambling.

A hard conversation now could really help their future.

Talking to someone about a possible gambling addiction is always going to feel like a difficult conversation. If you’re a friend or family member, the fear of upsetting the person or putting strain on the relationship can deter you from asking uncomfortable questions. But the truth is, a hard conversation now could really help their future and show them they are not alone. <h3>How to know if someone has a gambling addiction? </h3>Some people hide a gambling addiction from the closest people in their lives for years. The rise of online casinos and slots means that someone could be gambling anywhere at any time, and on the most addictive content, in complete secrecy. Never blame yourself for not seeing someone's addiction. It can be so easy to hide and cover up. The key is to understand the best way to help. <h4>Signs someone may have a gambling addiction </h4><ul><li>Their finances seem sporadic, sometimes having a lot of money, and other times being stressed about their finances. Perhaps even asking to borrow money soon after payday</li><li>Being protective and secretive over their phone</li><li>Being unable to cover major living expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments</li><li>Hiding or being secretive about their bank statements</li><li>Poor performance at work or school</li><li>Becoming defensive when asked about gambling</li><li>Low mood, anxiety and loss of sleep</li><li>Lying about where they’ve been</li></ul>Of course, none of these symptoms is definitive of a gambling addiction, but if you notice your loved one experiencing some or all of these, it may be a sign. <h3>How to talk to a loved one about gambling addiction</h3>Every person is different, but the key here is to be calm, direct and make sure the person doesn’t feel ambushed or blamed. Suffering gambling harm is hard enough, and there is so much guilt and shame around it that a conversation can trigger some intense feelings. Approach the person in private when there is plenty of time to have a chat. Don’t time it before any big or stressful events, as this could leave the person feeling overwhelmed and unable to provide the mental bandwidth needed to be transparent with you. Reassure the person that your love is unconditional, and you will still continue to support them. Encourage them to be completely open and honest by being non-judgmental.  Although it can be a challenge, responding calmly and with empathy can make a huge difference. You may feel shocked and upset by what they say, but try to be neutral to the best of your ability. It’s okay to not work everything out in the first conversation. Just knowing that you are there for the person is enough.If you need to talk seriously about finances, perhaps schedule this for another good time when emotions have calmed down, and you can talk more logistically. It will likely be an intense but relieving conversation for both. You may end up hitting a wall with the person, where they don’t want to talk. In this event, you need to give them reassurance and time, then bring it up a little later down the line. You may find that they end up opening up in the meantime anyway. <h2>The practical side</h2>Aside from having someone there for emotional support, there are multiple ways you can offer practical support to a loved one. Going through these and offering to help can be a huge weight off the person's shoulders and help them get moving into recovery. <ul><li>Gambling debt can feel overwhelming and scary, but there are organisations that can help. Find out more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">here</a>.</li><li>Block access to online gambling, both licensed and unlicensed, with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a>. </li><li>Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://self-exclusion.co.uk">here</a>.</li><li>Self-exclude from all UK casinos <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.senseselfexclusion.com">here</a>.</li><li>There is support for affected others at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.org.uk">GamFam</a>.</li><li>There is peer support, and support with the criminal justice system, available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamlearn.org.uk">GamLEARN</a>.</li><li>Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm. </li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">The Gamban Discord </a>is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.</li><li>Encourage them to listen to podcasts and videos from others who have recovered. This can be a source of inspiration.</li></ul>You certainly don’t need to tackle each one at once, but supporting them through each step gradually is a huge step towards recovery. Recovering from any addiction is a journey which isn’t linear. You’ll find the person has good and bad days, but having someone in their corner is invaluable.

How To Talk To Someone About Their Gambling

Learn how to spot the signs of a gambling addiction and start a supportive, honest conversation with a loved one. Practical advice and help for families and friends.

What research says about neurodiversity and gambling behaviour

The topic of ADHD has exploded into the news in the last few years. This huge surge in public awareness and increased recognition of symptoms means more people than ever are being diagnosed. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mi-adhd/may-2025">In May 2025,</a> it is estimated that 2,498,000 people in England have ADHD, including those without a diagnosis. <h3>What is ADHD?</h3>There are 3 main types of ADHD<ul><li>Hyperactive and impulsive type ADHD</li><li>Inattentive type ADHD</li><li>Combined type ADHD: Characterised by inattention and distractibility, as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity</li></ul>ADHD in women, in particular, can be more subtle and harder to recognise, making it more likely they get diagnosed later on in life. This has led to many people with a late diagnosis feeling that they’ve lost out on valuable support and understanding in their formative years. <h3>The Link Between ADHD and Gambling</h3>The ADHD brain is deficient in dopamine, the brain’s reward centre. This means everyday activities can feel flat, leading to a need for more intense stimulation. This can lead some people to seek out high-stimulation activities such as drinking, drugs and gambling.Anyone can get addicted to gambling, but those with ADHD can be particularly vulnerable. The impulsivity that comes with ADHD can make it harder to stop and think things through. Gambling, especially with slots that push you to move quickly, already relies on the user acting without thinking. While anyone could get addicted to gambling, those with ADHD are more prone to struggle with delayed gratification and control. This leads to seeking activities that provide immediate stimulation and offer the potential for high rewards from high risk, such as gambling.Understanding your ADHD is one of the best ways to manage it, and a late diagnosis may mean you previously relied on coping strategies that were not right for you.<h3>Managing ADHD</h3>Although those with ADHD can be more vulnerable to gambling addiction, there are plenty of steps you can take to support yourself or someone else:<ul><li>Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps you identify triggers and negative patterns so you can develop healthy coping mechanisms. This will help you manage addictive urges. </li><li>Medication isn’t for everyone, but if it works for you, ADHD meds can help to stabilise dopamine in the brain, which lowers the temptation to seek instant gratification. </li><li>Seeking positive, high-dopamine activities, such as sports or music. This will leave you feeling fulfilled without the risk and is especially helpful for those with ADHD.</li><li>Download <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">Gamban</a> to remove gambling temptation from your devices. This will block both legal and illegal gambling sites.</li><li>If you’re struggling to manage finances, giving up control to a trusted <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-an-accountability-partner-can-help-you-in-recovery">accountability partner </a>can help you with structure and debt control. </li><li>Talking to others in the same situation can be hugely helpful, through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">Gamcare</a> or anonymous sources like our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://discord.gg/mYJYCEN2ch">Gamban Discord Hub. </a></li></ul>The key is to break things down into small, achievable steps rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Making progress on just one of the steps above is an amazing move in the right direction.

Is There A Link Between ADHD And Gambling?

Rising ADHD diagnoses are highlighting a growing link with gambling risk. Explore why ADHD can increase vulnerability, the science behind impulsivity and dopamine, and practical ways to stay in control.

News & Articles

Mavia Siddiqui | Co-Founder Story

Why Gamban Has Joined The Campaign To End Greyhound Racing

Gamban Is Now Positive Planet Certified

Why Is TalkBanStop Ending?

What To Expect At Your First Gamblers Anonymous Meeting

Matt Zarb-Cousin | Co-Founder Story

How To Talk To Someone About Their Gambling

Is There A Link Between ADHD And Gambling?

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

News & Articles

List of Articles

Mavia Siddiqui | Co-Founder Story

Why Gamban Has Joined The Campaign To End Greyhound Racing

Gamban Is Now Positive Planet Certified

Why Is TalkBanStop Ending?

What To Expect At Your First Gamblers Anonymous Meeting

How To Limit Gambling Ads On Social Media 2026

Matt Zarb-Cousin | Co-Founder Story

How To Talk To Someone About Their Gambling

Is There A Link Between ADHD And Gambling?

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

Sign Up To The Gamban Newsletter