The Professional Players Federation has today announced a partnership with GAMSTOP, the free, independent service that allows consumers to exclude themselves from gambling websites.

GAMSTOP provides a simple, secure one-stop solution for anyone who wants to take a break from online gambling. As of March 31st, 2020, all British online operators have to integrate with GAMSTOP as a condition of their Gambling Commission licence, which means it now covers the entire British market for the first time.

Consumers who register with GAMSTOP can choose to exclude themselves from every gambling site for a minimum period of six months, one year or five years. They cannot then remove themselves from the scheme until their self-exclusion period has expired, and if they do not contact GAMSTOP, their registration is automatically rolled over for up to seven years.

The PPF’s partnership with GAMSTOP will entail raising awareness of the tool among its members through sharing information about GAMSTOP across the PPF website and social channels to ensure consumers and athletes alike know how to access the tool should they need it.

This builds on PPF’s existing Problem Gambling work, which educates players of the possible risks when gambling. GAMSTOP will be the latest addition to this educational hub, and as part of PPF’s work to ensure that professional sportsmen and women are informed about help available for people who may be at risk of gambling problems.

More than 150,000 people have already registered with GAMSTOP, which also works closely with gambling charities like GamCare. Anyone who contacts the service, either through the website or by calling the helpline, is referred to specialist advisors if they need additional help and support with their gambling issues.

Simon Taylor, chief executive of the PPF, said:

“Professional athletes are at a higher risk of developing gambling problems than their peers outside of sport. We are therefore pleased to help promote Gamstop to make it easier for players that decide they want to self-exclude.”

Fiona Palmer, chief executive of GAMSTOP, said: “We’re extremely excited to be able to work closely with the PPF and their members. We welcome PPF’s commitment to protecting and educating those closest to sport who might be affected by problems with their gambling.

This partnership will help ensure that all members have the practical tools and support around them to be protected and educated”.