Something else? We’re good listeners.

Although on the surface it may not seem harmful, gambling has the potential to get out of control quickly. If you’re worried that you or someone close to you is spending too much money on gambling, or if it’s starting to affect relationships with others or your own health, it’s time to take action.

It’s important to understand the impact gambling can have on your life and those around you, so recognising it as a problem is the first step. Here are some signs it’s becoming an issue:

• You’re spending a lot of time gambling
• You feel out of control with spending money
• You’re lying about how much you’re gambling
• Your relationships are being affected
• You’re missing out on normal day to day activities including work or education

Recognise any of these behaviours? Then please keep reading. We have worked with GamCare, a leading national provider of free support for anyone affected by gambling harms, to give you the best support you need. 

We understand that a gambling problem can’t be changed overnight, but there are steps you can take to help overcome it, one bit at a time. A good place to start is by adding your name to an ‘exclusion list’. This means gambling companies won’t be able to serve you, nor will you continue to receive direct marketing from them, which should really help. Please click here to find out more about how you can exclude yourself today.

Blocking software is also helpful for blocking gambling sites and apps on your devices, including your phone, tablet, laptop or PC. Gamban, a recommended software, is now available for free for up to 15 devices if you contact the National Gambling Helpline on Freephone 0808 80 20 133 or live chat via www.GamCare.org.uk

Gambling transaction ‘blocks’ may also be possible through your bank. Similar to exclusions, this is a really good way of taking control of the problem. To find out which banks do this, and more information on gambling and your finances, please click here.

Even though a gambling problem may seem overwhelming and scary, please please remember that there is hope, and help is available for you. You are not alone! The sooner you can take action, the better. GamCare told us that most people who complete a free course of treatment with them say it brought about positive change to their gambling situation and improved their wellbeing. Support is also available for your loved ones.

You can get in touch with GamCare now for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week: 0808 80 20 133 or live chat at www.GamCare.org.uk

If you are facing financial difficulties because of your own or someone else’s gambling, getting your finances under control is an important step. Please go to our section on financial worries where you can find resources and links to organisations that can help you. Similarly, if you do feel like your mental health is affected by gambling behaviour, please see our guide on ways to help your mental wellbeing, here.

Dealing with a loss of a loved one may be one of the hardest things us humans can go through. We appreciate you may need time to cope, and managing your finances won’t be at the front of your mind. We just ask that you let us know if you’re going through a hard time or you think your loan payments may be impacted. That way, we can look at how we can support you during this difficult time.

If you need some guidance on what to do if you are experiencing a bereavement, have a look at the following:

• What to do when someone dies: step by step
• Samaritans: When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at [email protected], or visit www.samaritans.org

Financial abuse can happen to everyone, and may not be typically recognised for what it is. This can include dangerous and unfair control of your finances by someone else, essentially taking away your financial independence.

If you have applied, or are thinking of applying

No matter what your relationship is, the decision to become a Borrower or Guarantor must be your choice. If you’re unsure, consider these few questions, if you do have any concerns with your answers please call us to see what we can do next.

• Do you have a good relationship with the other person on the application? 
• Have you read through the terms and conditions online? 
• If you’re thinking of standing as guarantor for the loan, are you aware you may be asked to make payments?
• If your relationship with the other person on the loan was to break down, are you aware that you would be responsible for the loan if they were unable to pay

If at any point you change your mind during the application process, or you have any reservations, you can speak openly to us. You do not have to disclose your reasons.

If you’re thinking of standing as a guarantor for someone, we encourage you to do your own research. Whether that’s popping us a call, or we would recommend you seek independent advice.

If you already have an Amigo Loan

If you believe that you didn’t have the mental capacity to make this decision, then please give us a call. Please bear in mind that we may request evidence from a Medical Professional.