Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or watching live sports. It should never be considered as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits on both time and spending.
Age Verification
In the United Kingdom, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in gambling activities. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to use betting sites or place wagers. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to register or gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone else, help is available. Problem gambling can develop quickly and may have serious consequences:
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Increased tolerance: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Financial problems: Borrowing money, maxing out credit cards, or facing debt because of gambling
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop gambling without success
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling restless or anxious when not gambling
- Continued gambling despite harm: Gambling even though it's causing problems in your life
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a given period
- Betting Limits: Control the maximum stake you can place on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during your gaming session to check how long and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Temporarily close your account for a set period (hours, days, or weeks) without permanently closing it
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently close your account if you feel you cannot control your gambling
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you are struggling with gambling, free confidential support is available from recognised organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free information, advice, and support for problem gambling. Available 24/7. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme. Register with GamStop to self-exclude from all online gambling companies licensed in Great Britain. www.gamstop.co.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: Specialist NHS treatment for problem gambling. CNWL NHS
- Gamblers Anonymous: Free peer support and recovery meetings across the UK. www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
International Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (Federal Centre for Health Education) – www.bzga.de
If You Need Help
If gambling is causing you or someone you care about problems, please reach out for support today. Problem gambling is a recognised condition that can be treated, and recovery is possible with the right help and support.
Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support services are confidential, free, and non-judgmental. There is no shame in asking for help.
For immediate support, contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (freephone, 24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit their website at www.gamcare.org.uk.