Responsible Gaming

Taking control of your gambling habits starts with simple, practical steps. These strategies can help you enjoy gaming safely whilst protecting your finances and mental health.

• Set a budget before you play. Decide how much you can afford to lose and never exceed that amount.
• Use deposit limits. Most UK casinos offer daily, weekly, or monthly deposit controls.
• Set time limits. Decide how long you’ll play and stick to it, regardless of wins or losses.
• Never chase losses. Trying to win back money often leads to bigger problems.
• Avoid gambling when upset or stressed. Emotional decisions rarely end well.
• Keep gambling separate from other activities. Don’t gamble whilst working, studying, or spending time with family.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from the screen every 30 minutes.
• Don’t borrow money to gamble. Only use disposable income you can afford to lose.
• Track your spending. Review your gambling activity regularly to maintain awareness.
• Balance gambling with other interests. Maintain hobbies, social connections, and physical activities outside of gaming.

Recognising problem gambling early can prevent serious consequences. These warning signs indicate that gambling may have become more than entertainment.

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Lying to family or friends about gambling activities.
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal relationships due to gambling.
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling.
• Repeatedly trying to cut down or stop gambling without success.
• Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions.
• Chasing losses by continuing to gamble after losing.
• Thinking about gambling constantly, even during other activities.
• Experiencing financial difficulties or debt due to gambling.
• Feeling guilty or ashamed about gambling behaviour.
• Prioritising gambling over essential expenses like bills or food.

If several of these signs apply to you, seeking help is a positive step, not a failure.

Online casino registration and slot play are strictly restricted to individuals aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom. This legal requirement exists to protect young people from gambling-related harm during critical developmental years. Reputable operators verify your age during registration and may request identity documents before processing withdrawals. Allowing minors to gamble is illegal and can result in serious consequences for both players and operators.

Self-exclusion allows you to voluntarily block access to gambling sites when you need a break or have recognised a problem. UK-licensed casinos offer self-exclusion periods ranging from six months to permanent closure. During this time, the operator prevents you from accessing your account, making deposits, or receiving marketing materials. For comprehensive protection, consider registering with GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme. GAMSTOP blocks access to all participating UK-licensed gambling websites and apps for a minimum of six months. This service is free, confidential, and covers thousands of operators. Once registered, you cannot reverse your decision until the exclusion period expires, providing crucial breathing space to address gambling issues.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. These UK organisations provide confidential support, treatment, and guidance for people affected by gambling addiction.

• GamCare – Offers free information, advice, and support through telephone helpline (0808 8020 133), live chat, and face-to-face counselling. Visit gamcare.org.uk.
• BeGambleAware – Provides educational resources, self-assessment tools, and access to the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133). Visit begambleaware.org.
• Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support groups across the UK where people share experiences and support each other’s recovery. Visit gamblersanonymous.org.uk.
• Gordon Moody Association – Residential treatment programmes and ongoing support for severe gambling addiction. Visit gordonmoody.org.uk.
• NHS Problem Gambling Clinic – Free NHS service offering specialist treatment for gambling disorders. Speak to your GP for referral.
• Samaritans – 24/7 emotional support for anyone struggling with difficult feelings. Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.

Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. These services exist to help you regain control and rebuild your life.