Responsible Gaming

Maintaining healthy gambling habits starts with simple, actionable steps. These strategies can help you stay in control and protect your finances.

• Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it strictly
• Decide on time limits for each session and use alarm reminders
• Never gamble with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
• Avoid chasing losses by trying to win back money you’ve lost
• Take regular breaks to maintain perspective and clear thinking
• Keep gambling separate from alcohol or substances that impair judgement
• Track your spending to understand your gambling patterns
• Use deposit limits and reality checks offered by operators
• Balance gambling with other hobbies and social activities
• Talk openly with trusted friends or family about your gambling habits

Recognising the warning signs early can make a significant difference. If you notice these behaviours in yourself or someone close to you, it may be time to seek help.

• Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
• Spending more time and money gambling than you intended
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Lying to family or friends about the extent of your gambling
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when trying to cut down
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, depression, or other problems
• Trying repeatedly to stop or reduce gambling without success
• Experiencing financial difficulties or debt due to gambling losses
• Thinking constantly about gambling, even when not playing

Online casino registration and participation in real-money gambling are strictly restricted to individuals aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom. Operators are legally required to verify your age before allowing you to place bets or claim winnings. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious consequences for both the player and the operator. Licensed casinos implement robust age verification systems to prevent minors from accessing gambling services and protect vulnerable young people from harm.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary tool that allows you to block access to your casino account for a set period. Most UK-licensed operators offer self-exclusion options ranging from six months to five years or permanently. During this time, you cannot access your account, deposit funds, or receive marketing materials. For comprehensive protection, you can register with GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme, which blocks access across all participating operators simultaneously. Self-exclusion gives you the space and time needed to regain control, without the temptation to return.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. Several trusted organisations in the United Kingdom provide free, confidential support and treatment.

• GamCare: Offers free counselling, support groups, and a national helpline (0808 8020 133) available 24/7
• Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support groups across the UK where you can share experiences in a safe, non-judgmental environment
• BeGambleAware: Provides educational resources, online chat support, and a helpline to connect you with local treatment services
• Gordon Moody Association: Residential treatment programmes for individuals with severe gambling addiction
• National Gambling Helpline: Free, confidential advice and referrals to specialist services (0808 8020 133)
• NHS Gambling Clinics: Free NHS treatment centres offering therapy and counselling in various regions
• Samaritans: Emotional support available 24/7 if you’re experiencing distress or crisis (116 123)