Responsible Gambling
Gambling can be an enjoyable form of entertainment when approached responsibly. However, it is important to recognise that for some people, gambling can become a serious problem. We are committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices and providing support to those who may need it. Always gamble within your means, set personal limits, and never chase your losses. If you feel that gambling is no longer fun and is beginning to affect your daily life, please seek help immediately.
Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or experience. It is important to be aware of the warning signs so that you or someone you care about can get help as early as possible. Common signs of problem gambling include:
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford to lose
- Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same level of excitement
- Chasing losses by continuing to gamble in an attempt to win back money you have lost
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling activities
- Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when attempting to reduce or stop gambling
- Lying to friends or family members about the extent of your gambling
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to do so
- Jeopardising or losing important relationships or career opportunities because of gambling
Self-Exclusion Tools
If you feel that you need a break from gambling, self-exclusion tools are available to help you take control. Self-exclusion allows you to voluntarily restrict your access to gambling websites and venues for a set period of time. Once a self-exclusion is in place, it can be very difficult to reverse, which is why it is considered one of the most effective tools for managing problem gambling.
Many online gambling operators offer built-in responsible gambling features, including deposit limits, loss limits, session time limits, reality checks, and cool-off periods. We strongly encourage all players to make use of these tools as part of a healthy approach to gambling. You can usually find these options within the account settings section of any licensed gambling platform.
In addition, national self-exclusion schemes such as GamStop allow you to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling companies in the United Kingdom at once. Registering with GamStop is free, confidential, and can be done quickly and easily online. If you are struggling to control your gambling, we urge you to consider self-exclusion as a proactive step toward recovery.
Helpful Resources
You are not alone. There are dedicated organisations staffed by trained professionals who are ready to offer free, confidential advice, counselling, and support to anyone affected by problem gambling. Whether you are a gambler yourself or someone concerned about a friend or family member, the following resources are here to help:
- BeGambleAware — BeGambleAware provides free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. Their website offers helpful tools, self-assessment tests, and access to a free helpline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- GamCare — GamCare is one of the leading providers of information, advice, and support for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling in the United Kingdom. They offer a free national helpline, online chat support, counselling services, and a range of resources for both gamblers and their loved ones.
If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or danger, please contact your local emergency services. Help is always available, and taking the first step to seek support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
