Responsible Gaming
Introduction
Gambling should always be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting apps and online casinos are designed for enjoyment, and it's important to only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Set a budget before you start, stick to it, and remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in the United Kingdom. If you are under 18, it is illegal for you to use betting apps or participate in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and encourage all operators to implement robust checks to prevent underage gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop gambling without success
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or healthcare professionals
- Gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Neglecting work, education, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when attempting to reduce gambling
- Lying about time spent or money spent on gambling
- Experiencing physical symptoms such as sleep problems or anxiety
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable betting apps and online casinos offer built-in tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a daily, weekly, or monthly period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session or time period
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks and limit how long you play
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from a single operator or multiple operators across the UK through GamStop
Always use these tools proactively, and speak to your betting operator if you need assistance setting them up.
Support Organizations
If you are struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of these organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free, confidential support and information
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Webchat and counselling services available - GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme) – Exclude yourself from all licensed UK gambling operators in one go
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - National Problem Gambling Clinic – Free NHS treatment service
Phone: 0203 640 7000 - Gamblers Anonymous – Support groups and peer help
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
International Support
- 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 (BZgA) – www.bzga.de
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in reaching out—support is available and recovery is possible. Contact GamCare or one of the organisations listed above to speak with a trained advisor who can provide confidential assistance and guidance tailored to your situation.
Gambling can be enjoyable when done responsibly. Always remember: play for fun, not for money, and know your limits.