Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be fun and entertaining, not a way to make money or solve financial problems
⚠️ Important Health Warning
Gambling can be addictive and may cause serious financial and personal problems.
Before you start gambling, please consider the risks and remember that gambling should never be used as a way to make money or solve financial difficulties.
Responsible Gambling Guidelines
Set Limits
Decide in advance how much money and time you can afford to spend gambling. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Set a budget before you start
- Use deposit limits on gambling sites
- Set time limits for gambling sessions
- Never chase losses
Keep It Fun
Gambling should be entertaining, not a way to make money. Treat it as a form of entertainment, not an investment.
- Gamble for fun, not profit
- Accept that you may lose
- Don't let gambling affect your mood
- Take regular breaks
Know When to Stop
Recognize the warning signs of problem gambling and know when to seek help or take a break.
- Stop if you're feeling stressed or upset
- Don't gamble under the influence
- Never borrow money to gamble
- Take regular breaks from gambling
Use Protection Tools
Take advantage of responsible gambling tools offered by licensed operators.
- Deposit limits
- Time limits
- Self-exclusion options
- Reality checks
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
Financial Signs
- Spending more money than you can afford
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Hiding gambling expenses from family
- Neglecting bills to fund gambling
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
Behavioral Signs
- Gambling for longer than planned
- Lying about gambling activities
- Gambling to escape problems
- Feeling restless when not gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or friends
Emotional Signs
- Feeling anxious or depressed
- Mood swings related to gambling
- Feeling guilty about gambling
- Irritability when not gambling
- Loss of interest in other activities
Get Help & Support
If you're struggling with gambling, remember that help is available. These organizations provide free, confidential support:
Self-Exclusion Options
What is Self-Exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a tool that allows you to restrict your access to gambling services for a specified period. This can help break the cycle of problem gambling.
Types of Self-Exclusion:
- GAMSTOP: Excludes you from all UK licensed online gambling sites
- Individual Site Exclusion: Exclude yourself from specific gambling sites
- Venue Exclusion: Exclude yourself from physical gambling venues
How to Self-Exclude:
- Visit the GAMSTOP website for online exclusion
- Contact individual gambling operators directly
- Speak to staff at physical gambling venues
- Seek help from support organizations
Need to Self-Exclude?
If you feel you need to take a break from gambling, self-exclusion can help.
Visit GAMSTOPHelp for Family and Friends
Problem gambling doesn't just affect the gambler - it affects family members and friends too. If someone you know has a gambling problem:
What You Can Do
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Offer emotional support without judgment
- Help them find treatment resources
- Set boundaries around money
- Take care of your own wellbeing
What to Avoid
- Don't lend money or pay gambling debts
- Don't enable their gambling behavior
- Don't blame yourself for their problem
- Don't try to control their gambling
- Don't ignore your own needs
Resources for Families
GamCare and other support organizations also provide help for family members and friends affected by someone else's gambling problem.
Get support for families →🚫 Under 18? Gambling is Illegal
It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble or attempt to gamble. This includes:
- Online casino games
- Sports betting
- Poker and other card games
- Any form of gambling activity
If you are under 18 and are concerned about gambling, speak to a trusted adult, teacher, or contact:
- Childline: 0800 1111
- Your GP or school counselor
- A trusted family member
🆘 Need Immediate Help?
If you or someone you know is in crisis due to gambling problems, don't wait - get help now:
GamCare National Helpline
0808 8020 133
Free, confidential support 24/7
Samaritans
116 123
Free emotional support 24/7
Crisis Text Line
Text SHOUT to 85258
Free text support 24/7