Responsible Gaming

Gambling should remain entertainment, not a source of stress or financial difficulty. You can maintain control and protect your wellbeing by following these practical strategies:

• Set a strict budget before you start playing and never exceed it
• Decide on time limits for each session and stick to them
• Never chase losses or attempt to win back money you’ve lost
• Avoid gambling when you’re upset, tired, or under the influence of alcohol
• Take regular breaks during gaming sessions to maintain perspective
• Keep gambling separate from other areas of your life
• Never borrow money to gamble or use funds meant for essentials
• Track your spending and time to stay aware of your habits
• View gambling as entertainment with a cost, not a way to make money
• Talk to someone you trust if you’re concerned about your gambling

Recognising problem gambling early can help you or someone you care about seek support before the situation worsens. Watch for these warning signs:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
• Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble
• Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities to gamble
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
• Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
• Risking important relationships or opportunities because of gambling
• Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts to get the same excitement
• Experiencing financial difficulties directly caused by gambling losses

Online gambling is strictly restricted to individuals aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom. Casinos are legally required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to register or play. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious consequences for both the player and the operator. Reputable gambling sites implement robust age verification measures to ensure only adults can access their services.

If you’re struggling to control your gambling, self-exclusion provides a powerful tool to protect yourself. This voluntary scheme allows you to request that an online casino blocks your access to your account for a set period, typically ranging from six months to five years. During this time, the operator will prevent you from gambling on their site and restrict marketing communications. You can also register for GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme, which blocks you from all licensed gambling sites simultaneously. Self-exclusion gives you the breathing space you need to regain control and seek support.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. Professional support is available throughout the United Kingdom to help you recover and rebuild your life:

• GamCare – Offers free confidential advice, support, and counselling through their helpline (0808 8020 133), live chat, and face-to-face services
• Gamblers Anonymous – Provides peer support through local meetings where you can share experiences in a non-judgmental environment
• National Gambling Helpline – Available 24/7 on 0808 8020 133 for immediate support and guidance
• BeGambleAware – Delivers information, advice, and access to free treatment services for anyone affected by gambling harm
• Gordon Moody Association – Offers residential treatment programmes and ongoing support for those with severe gambling addiction
• Citizens Advice – Provides practical help managing debt and financial problems caused by gambling