Where to get help: NRGP and Responsible Play

Free, confidential help for gambling harm is available in South Africa - here's where to start.

2 min read · Awareness resource · Reviewed 2026-09-15

Recovering from gambling harm is very possible, and you do not have to do it alone. South Africa has free, confidential support - the hardest step is the first one: reaching out.

Where to get help

National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP): free, confidential counselling - 0800 006 008 (toll-free, 24 hours) or WhatsApp 076 675 0710. They offer telephone and face-to-face counselling across the country
PlaySafe / Cleared Mind counsellors - support through your EAP or the app
Self-exclusion + limits with operators as a practical barrier
Support groups (such as Gamblers Anonymous) for peer support

What help looks like

A confidential conversation, no judgement. Together you look at what's happening, practical steps (exclusion, limits, managing debt), and a plan for staying on track - including support for family members affected.

For family

The NRGP also supports loved ones - you deserve help too.

First step today

Save the number, and make one call or send one message. That single action changes everything.

Getting help in South Africa

National Responsible Gambling Programme: 0800 006 008 (free, confidential).