Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While most people gamble responsibly, it's important to be aware of the risks and know where to find help if needed.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years or older to gamble in Great Britain, or meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction. All reputable casinos and betting sites verify your age and identity before allowing you to play. Never attempt to gamble if you are underage.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Recognising the signs early is crucial. Ask yourself if you have experienced any of the following:
- Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family or friends
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Neglecting work, studies, or relationships because of gambling
- Feeling anxious, guilty, or depressed about your gambling
- Lying about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Trying unsuccessfully to cut down or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Most licensed gambling sites offer practical tools to help you stay in control. These include:
- Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly
- Loss limits – cap the amount you can lose in a given period
- Reality checks – receive reminders of how long you have been playing
- Time-outs – take a short break from gambling for 24 hours to several weeks
- Self-exclusion – block yourself from a site for a longer period (e.g., 6 months to 5 years)
In Great Britain, you can also self-exclude from all licensed online gambling sites at once using GAMSTOP.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know needs help, these organisations offer free, confidential advice and support:
- United Kingdom: GamCare – Helpline: 0808 8020 133
GAMSTOP – Free national self-exclusion scheme - Australia: Gambling Help Online – Phone: 1800 858 858
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – www.bzga.de
- Other countries: Please search for your national problem gambling helpline or visit Gambling Therapy for international support.
Seek Help Today
If you think you have a problem with gambling, or if your gambling is affecting someone you love, please reach out. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7. You are not alone.