Gambling debt and debt management plan

What_a_Shocker

Hi, I've started to arrange a dmp, I now need to inform my creditors I am going go be paying less (approx 40% of what I should be paying). Question is do tell creditors I've basically been losing their money, or is gambling debt frowned upon? I suspect if I was ill and couldn't work I'd be dealt with somewhat more sympathetic. What do people think? Thanks

Tallaght

First of all contact gambling sites that you were using and ask them to 'self-exclude' you for life from using their websites.Just in case you get the urge again.

What_a_Shocker

Yes completely agree with that, it's too easy to slip back into it. I've joined the gym and tried to put other blocks in place like excluding from local bookies so determined to get back on track.

Afreshstart

Hi
I panicked,found myself unable to pay council tax etc because my gambling was out of control.After a visit to CAB & furtunately finding this forum I started a DMP.I was very upfront initially to all.My thinking was I wanted to make it clear I hadn't been on a spending spree & had a house full of new goods.I was really scared the bailiffs would come round.

In hindsight I'm not sure if the creditors took any notice of my explanation - Gambling addiction.
They certainly never commented.I don't mention it anymore & suspect if you stick to the fact you are in financial difficulty that will do.

Definately agree, seek help or at least find away to exclude yourself as you seem to have done.

Tallaght

Try https://www.gamcare.org.uk/

Good Luck.

GothicStirling

No need to tell creditors where the money went, no-one has the right to sit in judgement. My debts spiralled out of control because I struggled to find work, and had to pay the rent etc., doesn't make it any different to someone who had spent it on luxury holidays or gambling.

I do recommend you speak to Stepchange, to make sure that 40% is affaordable to you. Secondly, I would speak to your GP who will be able to point you in the direction to getting to the route of your gambling addiction.

https://www.stepchange.org/

Craig1981

as above - all good points

Gamcare will allow you to self exclude from majority on online gambling sites, as well as betting shops and casinos (different things need for the last two)

if it is online, you can also get some software installed, like k9 web protect - get someone else to install it and get them to enter a password you have no access to, or are unable to reset

it is good that you acknowledged it, so you are on the right path to get sorted