Responsible Gaming: Your Guide to Safe Gambling

Gambling should always be fun, entertaining, and within your means. This page provides essential information and resources to help UK players gamble responsibly and recognize when gaming becomes problematic.

โš ๏ธ If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available 24/7. Call the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133 for free, confidential support.

UK Support Organizations

The following organizations provide free, confidential support for problem gambling in the United Kingdom:

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ GamCare

National Gambling Helpline

Free, confidential advice and emotional support for anyone affected by problem gambling.

Phone: 0808 8020 133 (24/7)

Website: www.gamcare.org.uk

Live Chat: Available on website

โ„น๏ธ GambleAware

Independent Charity

Provides information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling harm. Funds research, education, and treatment services.

Website: www.begambleaware.org

Services: Educational resources, self-assessment tools, treatment directory

๐Ÿฅ Gordon Moody Association

Residential Treatment

Provides residential courses and ongoing support for individuals with serious gambling addictions.

Phone: 01384 241292

Website: www.gordonmoody.org.uk

Services: Residential programmes, online support, aftercare

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Gamblers Anonymous

Peer Support Groups

Fellowship of people who share experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover.

Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk

Meetings: In-person and online throughout UK

Responsible Gambling Tools

All UKGC-licensed casinos are required to offer tools that help you maintain control over your gambling. Here are the essential tools available:

๐Ÿ’ฐ Deposit Limits

Set maximum amounts you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly. Changes take 24 hours to increase.

๐Ÿ’ต Loss Limits

Restrict the maximum amount you can lose over a specified time period.

โฐ Session Time Limits

Set alerts or automatic logout after a predetermined time.

๐Ÿ“Š Reality Checks

Regular pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.

โ„๏ธ Take a Break

Temporary account suspension for 24 hours, 7 days, or longer.

๐Ÿšซ Self-Exclusion

Block access to your account for a minimum period (6 months to 5 years or permanent).

Self-Exclusion Schemes

GAMSTOP

National Self-Exclusion Scheme

Free service that allows you to self-exclude from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites for a chosen period.

  • 6 months minimum period
  • Covers all UK-licensed operators
  • Cannot be reversed
  • Easy online registration

Register: www.gamstop.co.uk

Individual Casino Exclusion

Single Operator Block

Self-exclude from specific casino brands through their responsible gaming settings or customer support.

  • Available immediately
  • Flexible duration options
  • Easy to implement
  • Contact customer support

Software Blocking

Device-Level Protection

Install software on your computer or mobile device to block access to gambling websites.

  • GamBlock
  • Betfilter
  • Net Nanny
  • Qustodio

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Recognizing the warning signs early is crucial. If you notice any of these behaviors in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:

Behavioral Warning Signs

  • Gambling with money you can't afford to lose
  • Chasing losses by gambling more
  • Lying to family or friends about gambling
  • Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
  • Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
  • Gambling to escape problems or negative feelings

Financial Warning Signs

  • Spending more time and money gambling than intended
  • Unable to stop gambling despite wanting to
  • Defaulting on bills or loans to fund gambling
  • Maxing out credit cards or overdrafts
  • Sudden financial difficulties without explanation
  • Requesting frequent salary advances
  • Borrowing from multiple sources

Safer Gambling Guidelines

10 Rules for Responsible Gambling

  1. Gamble for entertainment only - Never view gambling as a way to make money or solve financial problems.
  2. Set a budget before you start - Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, not money needed for essentials.
  3. Set time limits - Decide in advance how long you'll play and stick to it.
  4. Never chase losses - Accept losses as part of the game. Trying to win back money usually leads to bigger losses.
  5. Don't gamble when upset or stressed - Make decisions with a clear mind, not when emotional.
  6. Take regular breaks - Step away from gambling to maintain perspective.
  7. Keep gambling and alcohol separate - Alcohol impairs judgment and can lead to reckless decisions.
  8. Balance gambling with other activities - Maintain hobbies, social connections, and interests outside of gambling.
  9. Monitor your spending - Keep track of deposits, wagers, and losses. Use transaction history tools.
  10. Ask for help if needed - There's no shame in seeking support. Early intervention is key.

Protecting Minors

๐Ÿ”’ Parental Controls

Protect children and young people from accessing gambling websites:

  • Use parental control software on all devices
  • Enable SafeSearch on browsers
  • Monitor device usage regularly
  • Keep gambling apps password-protected
  • Educate children about gambling risks

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Talk to Your Children

Open conversations about gambling:

  • Explain that gambling is age-restricted (18+)
  • Discuss the risks and realities of gambling
  • Be a positive role model
  • Create a safe environment for questions
  • Monitor for warning signs in adolescents
โš ๏ธ IMPORTANT: It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK. All UKGC-licensed operators conduct age verification checks. Parents and guardians should take active steps to prevent underage gambling.

Need Help Right Now?

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, don't wait. Help is available 24/7.

๐Ÿ“ž Call Helpline: 0808 8020 133

Free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Visit GamCare Visit GambleAware Self-Exclude via GAMSTOP