Matt's story
Matt began gambling aged just 11, eventually losing more than £700,000. Now Head of Peer Support Services at Betknowmore UK, Matt uses his lived experience to help people suffering from gambling addiction.
My message to others is that there is always hope. Help is out there.
Losing money and relationships
My first experience of gambling was when I was 11. I spent most weekends with my grandfather who would bet on horses every week. One weekend he asked me to pick a horse which then went on to win, despite the 33:1 odds. He gave me £30 as a treat. From that moment, gambling became a part of my life.
Gambling had become embedded in my life and personality, but at first I didn’t realise how bad it had got. When I eventually realised how much trouble I was in, I’d lost over £700,000. It wasn’t just money that I lost – I also lost relationships with loved ones that will never recover.
My lowest point came when I tried to take my own life. That is what made me want to make a change.
A rounded approach to recovery
I reached out for help and started talking to people. Signing up to Gamstop was a total lifesaver for me. Having to exclude from each individual gambling site made it almost impossible to stop, but Gamstop changed all of that for me. It allows you to have breathing space to ensure that when you have an urge or impulse that you can’t place a bet in that moment. That makes all the difference.
I would recommend taking a rounded approach. However bad things seem, there are always people out there who you can talk to and reaching out is so important if you are to recover long term.
Helping others
My last bet was in 2018. I’m now using my lived experience to help others as Head of Peer Support Services at Betknowmore UK, a scheme that uses lived experience to help those suffering from gambling.
My message to others is that there is always hope. Help is out there.
Take control of your gambling
"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.
"Registering with Gamstop was key to my recovery."
Having struggled with a gambling addiction for over 10 years, Declan registered with Gamstop to take back control.
"I just needed to take control."
Steelworker Jack registered with Gamstop to take control of a gambling addiction that was burning through his wages.
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.