Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be fun, not harmful. Learn about responsible gambling practices and get help if you need it.
What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling means making informed decisions about gambling activities while maintaining control over the time and money you spend. It's about keeping gambling as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems.
Key Principles
- Set Limits: Decide how much money and time you can afford to spend before you start
- Never Chase Losses: Don't try to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Take Breaks: Regular breaks help you stay in control
- Don't Gamble When Upset: Avoid gambling when you're stressed, depressed, or under the influence
- Keep Perspective: Remember that gambling is entertainment, not an investment
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Be aware of these warning signs:
Behavioral Signs
- Spending more time and money gambling than intended
- Lying about gambling activities or losses
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
- Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities
Emotional Signs
- Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling
- Guilt, shame, or anxiety about gambling
- Mood swings related to gambling wins or losses
- Difficulty concentrating on other activities
- Depression or thoughts of self-harm
Financial Signs
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Hiding financial problems from family or friends
- Using credit cards or loans to fund gambling
- Selling possessions to get money for gambling
- Unpaid bills or financial difficulties
Self-Assessment Questions
Ask yourself these questions honestly:
Time and Money
- Do you spend more time gambling than you intended?
- Do you gamble with money you can't afford to lose?
- Have you borrowed money to gamble?
Control and Behavior
- Do you find it difficult to stop gambling?
- Have you lied about your gambling activities?
- Do you gamble to escape problems or negative feelings?
Impact on Life
- Has gambling affected your relationships?
- Have you neglected work or other responsibilities?
- Do you feel anxious or depressed about gambling?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may be developing a gambling problem. Consider seeking help from the organizations listed below.
Get Help and Support
If you're concerned about your gambling, help is available. These organizations provide free, confidential support:
Responsible Gambling Tools
Most licensed UK casinos offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit into your casino account.
Loss Limits
Set maximum amounts you're willing to lose over specified time periods.
Session Time Limits
Set limits on how long you can play in a single session.
Reality Checks
Regular reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.
Self-Exclusion
Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites.
Account Cooling Off
Take a break from gambling for a specified period (24 hours to 6 weeks).
Financial Management Tips
Protect your finances while gambling:
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start gambling. Treat it as entertainment expense, not an investment.
Use Separate Accounts
Keep gambling money separate from money for bills, savings, and daily expenses.
Avoid Credit
Never use credit cards, loans, or borrowed money to gamble. Only use money you actually have.
Track Spending
Keep records of how much you spend gambling. Many people underestimate their losses.
Age Verification and Protection
Adults Only
Gambling is strictly for adults aged 18 and over. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online or in person.
Protecting Minors
- All UK-licensed operators must verify the age of their customers
- Keep your gambling accounts secure and private
- Don't share account details with anyone under 18
- Use parental controls on devices and internet connections
- Educate young people about gambling risks
Additional Resources
More help and information:
NHS Mental Health Support
The NHS provides mental health support for gambling addiction.
nhs.uk/mental-healthSamaritans
Free, confidential support for people experiencing distress or despair.
samaritans.orgHelpline: 116 123
Citizens Advice
Free, independent advice on dealing with debt and financial problems.
citizensadvice.org.ukUK Gambling Commission
Information about gambling regulations and player protection.
gamblingcommission.gov.uk