Responsible Gaming

Gaming should be fun, entertaining, and safe. We're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and providing resources to help you stay in control.

⚠️ Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

It's important to recognize the early warning signs of problem gambling. If you notice any of these behaviors in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:

💰

Financial Issues

  • Spending more money than you can afford
  • Borrowing money to gamble
  • Hiding gambling expenses from family
  • Gambling with money meant for bills or essentials
🕐

Time Management

  • Gambling for longer than planned
  • Losing track of time while gambling
  • Neglecting work, family, or social obligations
  • Gambling to escape problems or stress
😰

Emotional Signs

  • Feeling anxious when not gambling
  • Mood swings related to wins and losses
  • Lying about gambling activities
  • Feeling guilty or ashamed about gambling
🔄

Behavioral Changes

  • Chasing losses with bigger bets
  • Unable to stop or reduce gambling
  • Thinking constantly about gambling
  • Becoming secretive about activities

Self-Assessment Quiz

Answer these questions honestly to assess your gambling habits:

1. Do you often gamble longer than you originally planned?

2. Do you gamble to escape from problems or feelings of anxiety or depression?

3. Have you ever lied to family or friends about how much you gamble?

4. Do you feel anxious or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling?

5. Have you borrowed money or sold items to fund your gambling?

Setting Limits

Setting and sticking to limits is one of the most effective ways to gamble responsibly. Here's how to set effective limits:

💰 Financial Limits

  • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits
  • Loss Limits: Decide in advance how much you can afford to lose
  • Spend Limits: Set maximum betting amounts per session
  • Budget Rule: Never gamble with money you can't afford to lose

⏰ Time Limits

  • Session Limits: Set maximum time per gambling session
  • Daily Limits: Limit total gambling time per day
  • Break Reminders: Take regular breaks during sessions
  • Schedule Balance: Ensure gambling doesn't interfere with other activities

🎯 Reality Checks

  • Regular Reminders: Set up time and spending alerts
  • Track Sessions: Keep a record of your gambling activity
  • Review Regularly: Assess your gambling behavior weekly
  • Honest Evaluation: Be truthful about your gambling habits

Get Help and Support

If you're struggling with gambling, you're not alone. Professional help and support are available 24/7.

GamCare

Free support, information and advice for anyone affected by gambling problems.

Phone: 0808 8020 133 (24/7 free helpline)

Website: www.gamcare.org.uk

Live Chat: Available 24/7

BeGambleAware

Leading charity providing information, advice and support for responsible gambling.

Website: www.begambleaware.org

Self-Exclusion: www.gamstop.co.uk

Resources: Guides, tools, and recovery support

Gordon Moody Association

Residential treatment and support services for gambling addiction.

Phone: 01384 241292

Website: www.gordonmoody.org.uk

Services: Residential treatment, counseling

Samaritans

Free emotional support for anyone in distress or struggling to cope.

Phone: 116 123 (24/7 free helpline)

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Website: www.samaritans.org

Helpful Tools and Resources

🚫 GAMSTOP

Free self-exclusion service that helps you control your gambling across all licensed operators in Great Britain.

Visit GAMSTOP

💳 Banking Controls

Most UK banks offer gambling blocking services. Contact your bank to set up spending controls and gambling blocks.

Major banks offering gambling blocks:

  • Barclays
  • HSBC
  • Lloyds
  • NatWest
  • Santander

📱 Apps and Software

Use blocking software to restrict access to gambling websites and apps.

  • Gamban: Cross-platform gambling blocker
  • BetBlocker: Free gambling blocking software
  • Qustodio: Parental control with gambling filters

📚 Educational Resources

Learn more about responsible gambling and addiction recovery.

  • NHS: Mental health and addiction resources
  • Mind: Mental health charity with gambling support
  • Citizens Advice: Financial guidance and debt support

Support for Families and Friends

Gambling problems don't just affect the gambler - they impact families, friends, and loved ones too. Here's how to get support:

🏠 GamAnon

Support groups for family and friends affected by someone else's gambling problem.

Website: www.gamanon.org.uk

💪 How to Help

  • Listen without judgment
  • Encourage professional help
  • Don't enable gambling behavior
  • Set clear boundaries
  • Take care of your own wellbeing

⚠️ What Not to Do

  • Don't lend money or pay gambling debts
  • Don't hide the consequences
  • Don't lecture or criticize
  • Don't try to control their gambling
  • Don't ignore your own needs

Prevention Tips for Safe Gambling

1

Set a Budget

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Never use money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or food.

2

Set Time Limits

Decide in advance how long you'll gamble and stick to it. Use alarms or reminders to help you stop on time.

3

Never Chase Losses

Accept losses as part of gambling. Trying to win back money by gambling more is a dangerous path.

4

Take Regular Breaks

Step away from gambling regularly. Fresh air and a change of scenery help maintain perspective.

5

Balance Your Life

Maintain other interests and social activities. Gambling should never be your only form of entertainment.

6

Avoid Gambling When

Don't gamble when you're stressed, depressed, tired, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.