Life After GamStop

Navigating Your Next Steps After Self-Exclusion

Completing a GamStop self-exclusion period is a significant milestone. It marks the end of a chosen period of reflection and control. However, the end of your minimum term doesn't mean your exclusion is automatically lifted. This guide explains the necessary steps and offers points to consider for your path forward.

My Exclusion Period is Over. What Happens Now?

A common misconception is that GamStop simply "switches off" after 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. This is not the case. Your self-exclusion will remain active until you take specific steps to deactivate it. This is a deliberate safety feature designed to prevent an impulsive return to gambling the moment a minimum period concludes.

If you do nothing, you will continue to be blocked from all UK-licensed gambling websites and apps.

A compass on a desk, representing making a considered choice about the future path.

How to Deactivate Your GamStop Exclusion

To end your self-exclusion, you must actively contact GamStop and request its removal. The process cannot be started before your chosen minimum period has officially ended.

Key Steps for Deactivation

  • Contact GamStop: You must call the GamStop contact centre to start the deactivation process. It cannot be done via email or online form.
  • The Cooling-Off Period: After your request, a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period begins. Your exclusion remains active during this time.
  • Exclusion Lifted: Once the cooling-off period is over, your details are removed from the active exclusion list, and you will be able to access UK-licensed sites again.

A Moment for Reflection

The time between your exclusion ending and deciding to deactivate it is valuable. Before making the call, it's worthwhile to reflect on a few questions:

  • Why did I sign up for GamStop in the first place?
  • Have the circumstances that led me to self-exclude changed?
  • What strategies do I have in place now to manage my habits?
  • Is returning to online gambling the right choice for my well-being right now?
There is no rush. The choice to deactivate is entirely yours, and it can be made at any time after your minimum term is complete. You can also choose to let it roll on indefinitely or even register for a new exclusion period.

If You Choose to Return: Strategies for Staying in Control

If you decide that returning to online gambling is a safe and appropriate choice for you, it's wise to do so with a clear plan. Most UK-licensed operators offer a range of responsible gaming tools that you should utilise from the very beginning:

  • Set Deposit Limits: Decide on a budget you are comfortable with (daily, weekly, or monthly) and set this limit on your account immediately.
  • Use Time-Outs / Reality Checks: Configure reminders that pop up to help you keep track of how long you've been playing.
  • Self-Exclude from a single operator: If you find you are spending too much time or money with one company, you can self-exclude from them directly without affecting other sites.

Remember, these tools are there for your protection. For a more complete overview, see our guide on Responsible Gaming Tools.

If at any point you feel unsure, we strongly encourage you to speak with a professional. You can find a list of excellent organisations on our Help & Support page.