Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Fun

Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. If gambling is no longer fun, or if it's causing problems in your life, it's time to seek help.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

You may have a gambling problem if you:

  • Gamble more than you can afford to lose
  • Feel the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money
  • Have tried to stop gambling but couldn't
  • Feel restless or irritable when trying to stop gambling
  • Gamble to escape problems or relieve feelings of anxiety or depression
  • Chase your losses by gambling more
  • Lie to family or friends about your gambling
  • Have jeopardized relationships, jobs, or opportunities because of gambling
  • Need to borrow money to finance your gambling

Tips for Responsible Gambling

Set Limits

Before you start gambling, decide how much money and time you can afford to spend. Never exceed these limits, no matter what happens.

Never Chase Losses

Accept losses as part of gambling. Trying to win back money you've lost usually leads to bigger losses.

Take Regular Breaks

Gambling for long periods can cloud your judgment. Take breaks and step away from gambling regularly.

Don't Gamble When Upset

Never gamble when you're depressed, angry, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This impairs your judgment and decision-making.

Treat Gambling as Entertainment

Think of gambling as paying for entertainment, not as a way to make money. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Keep Track of Spending

Monitor how much you're spending on gambling. Many casinos provide tools to track your spending and set limits.

Self-Exclusion Tools

GamStop

GamStop is a free self-exclusion scheme that allows you to exclude yourself from all UK-licensed gambling sites for a chosen period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years). Once you register with GamStop, you cannot reverse the exclusion until the chosen period has ended.

Visit GamStop.co.uk

Gambling Limits & Tools

All UK-licensed casinos are required to provide tools to help you manage your gambling. These include:

  • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits
  • Loss Limits: Set limits on how much you can lose
  • Wager Limits: Limit how much you can bet
  • Time Limits: Set session time limits
  • Cool-Off Periods: Take short breaks from gambling
  • Reality Checks: Regular reminders of how long you've been gambling
  • Self-Exclusion: Permanently exclude yourself from a casino

Get Help

If you're struggling with problem gambling, remember that help is available. There are many organizations and resources ready to support you:

BeGambleAware

BeGambleAware

A leading charity committed to minimizing gambling-related harm. They provide advice, support, and free counselling services.

Website: www.begambleaware.org

Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24/7 free and confidential)

GamCare

GamCare

Provides support, advice, and free counselling for anyone affected by problem gambling.

Website: www.gamcare.org.uk

Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (available 24/7)

Live Chat: Available on their website

Gambling Therapy

Gamblers Anonymous

A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from a gambling problem.

Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk

Find a Meeting: Local meetings available throughout the UK

Crisis Support

If you're in immediate crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact:

  • Emergency Services: 999
  • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • NHS 111: 111 (for urgent medical advice)

Underage Gambling

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to gamble in the United Kingdom. All UK-licensed casinos are required to verify the age of their customers. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble. If you know someone under 18 who is gambling, please report it to the relevant authorities.

Remember

There is no shame in seeking help for problem gambling. Recovery is possible, and many people have successfully overcome gambling problems with the right support and treatment.

If you need help, reach out today. You don't have to face this alone.