Jack's story
Jack began gambling in 2012 and registered with Gamstop in 2020 after his addiction began to spiral out of control. He discovered a passion for professional ultra-marathon running and in 2024 won the toughest long-distance run on the planet, the Montane Spine Race.
I’d want anyone who is struggling to know that they are not alone and that there are tools available to help them, such as Gamstop.
Payday cycle
I started when I turned 18. I think the combination of alcohol and the ability to gamble at that age was a dangerous mix for me and I began quickly burning through most of my money on a monthly basis.
By 19 I’d self-excluded from my local betting shop, but this only drove me towards online gambling. I found it incredibly difficult to remain in control while gambling online as it was easier to not think about the consequences compared to going to a bookmaker and physically signing the betting slip. At the time, I was being paid a weekly wage on a Monday afternoon and often I'd spent the whole pay packet by Tuesday morning, so I knew things had got bad.
Taking back control
I was really trying to get into ultra-running, but I knew in order to pursue my ambitions, I first had to tackle my gambling addiction, which led me to registering with Gamstop in 2020. My wife Jess was also a big help – I think it was a combination of asking Jess to marry me and signing up to Gamstop that really helped me put my gambling behind me.
Advice to others
Since then, my life has improved significantly and so has my running. I’m now a keen Ultra runner, having completed some great trials with many more planned. I’m also really passionate about reaching out to those who are struggling with gambling, I’m hoping by sharing my experience, I can encourage others to reach out and get help.
I’d want anyone who is struggling to know that they are not alone and that there are tools available to help them, such as Gamstop. I also think finding a passion like I have with running and making sure you have a good support network around you is really important.
Take control of your gambling
"There are people ready and willing to help you."
Stacey spent 8 years addicted to gambling and is now committed to raising awareness amongst women like herself who have struggled with gambling in silence.
"I needed to get professional help..."
Harj Gahley had a gambling addiction for over 10 years before seeking professional help with the support of his wife.
"Gamstop helped me recover."
Adam had a gambling addiction between the ages of 18-23 and registered with Gamstop to get his life back on track.
More ways to control your gambling
Gamstop Online is just the start. Many people who use Gamstop Online also use the Multi Operator Self Exclusion Scheme (MOSES) to block themselves from betting shops, install gambling blocking software on their devices, or receive advice and support from specialist organisations that support those struggling with gambling.