Responsible Gaming

Taking control of your gambling starts with practical steps. Here are proven strategies to help you maintain healthy gaming habits:

• Set a strict budget before you start and never exceed it
• Establish time limits for each gaming session
• Never chase losses or try to win back money you’ve lost
• Avoid gambling when you’re upset, stressed, or under the influence
• Take regular breaks to maintain perspective
• Keep gambling separate from other activities in your life
• Never borrow money to gamble
• Track your spending and time to stay aware of your habits
• Use deposit limits and loss limits offered by operators
• Remember that gambling is entertainment, not a way to make money

Recognising the warning signs early can make all the difference. Watch for these indicators that gambling may be becoming a problem:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve anxiety
• Lying to family or friends about your gambling activities
• Neglecting work, relationships, or other responsibilities
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling guilty or ashamed about your gambling behaviour
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Gambling to recover previous losses
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling

Online gambling is strictly for adults aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom. All licensed operators must verify your age before allowing you to register or play. Underage gambling is illegal and can cause serious harm to young people’s development and financial wellbeing. Operators use robust age verification systems to prevent minors from accessing gambling services.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary tool that allows you to block access to your gambling accounts for a set period. All UK-licensed casinos must offer this option, giving you control when you need a break. You can exclude yourself for periods ranging from 24 hours to permanently, depending on your needs. During this time, operators will prevent you from opening new accounts or accessing existing ones. For comprehensive protection, you can also register with GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme, which blocks access to all licensed online gambling sites simultaneously.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. Professional support is available across the UK:

• GAMSTOP – Free self-exclusion scheme covering all UKGC-licensed operators (www.gamstop.co.uk)
• GamCare – Confidential support, counselling, and treatment services available 24/7 on 0808 8020 133 (www.gamcare.org.uk)
• Gamblers Anonymous – Free peer support groups meeting throughout the UK (www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk)
• National Gambling Helpline – Free, confidential advice and support on 0808 8020 133
• BeGambleAware – Information, advice, and support services for problem gamblers and their families (www.begambleaware.org)
• Gordon Moody Association – Residential treatment and support for those severely affected by gambling addiction (www.gordonmoody.org.uk)
• NHS Gambling Clinics – Specialist NHS services offering free assessment and treatment

Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. These organisations understand what you’re going through and can provide the support you need.