Responsible Gaming

Introduction

Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. It is important to play responsibly, set limits, and never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, it is time to seek help.

Age Verification

In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years or older to gamble legally. Always respect the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious legal and personal consequences. We strongly encourage parents and guardians to use parental controls and monitor online activity to prevent underage access.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognise several of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek support:

• Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have already lost.
• Hiding gambling activity from family or friends.
• Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essentials.
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop.
• Lying about how much time or money is spent gambling.
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.
• Neglecting work, studies, or relationships because of gambling.
• Gambling to escape from stress, anxiety, or depression.

Self-Help Tools

Many gambling sites – including those not registered with GamStop – offer responsible gambling tools. Where available, use them to stay in control:

• Deposit limits: Restrict how much money you can deposit over a day, week, or month.
• Loss limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given period.
• Reality checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you have been playing.
• Time-out periods: Take a short break from gambling for 24 hours to several weeks.
• Self-exclusion: Block yourself from accessing a specific site or all UK-licensed operators via GamStop.

Support Organisations

If you are concerned about your gambling, please contact one of the following trusted organisations. They provide free, confidential advice and support.

United Kingdom

• GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  Offers the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and live chat.
• GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
  Free self-exclusion scheme for UK-licensed online gambling sites.

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 (BZgA) – www.bzga.de (also provides the portal www.check-dein-spiel.de)
• Other countries: Please search for your national responsible gambling or problem gambling helpline – most jurisdictions have a dedicated free service.

Seek Help Now

If you recognise problem gambling in yourself or someone you care about, do not wait. Reach out to a support organisation today. Gambling problems are treatable, and help is available 24/7. You are not alone.