Responsible Gaming

Protecting yourself starts with simple, practical steps. Here are proven strategies to keep your gambling safe and enjoyable:

• Set a strict budget before you play and never exceed it
• Decide how much time you’ll spend gambling and stick to that limit
• Never chase losses or try to win back money you’ve lost
• Avoid gambling when you’re upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol
• Take regular breaks during gaming sessions to maintain perspective
• Keep gambling separate from other financial responsibilities
• Never borrow money to gamble or use credit for gaming purposes
• Track your spending and time to stay aware of your habits
• Balance gambling with other hobbies and social activities
• Remember that gambling is entertainment, not a way to earn money

Recognising warning signs early can help you or someone you care about get support. Watch for these indicators:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you planned
• Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble
• Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
• Repeatedly trying and failing to control or stop gambling
• Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
• Needing to bet more money to feel the same excitement
• Spending time thinking about gambling constantly

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. Operators verify age during registration and may request identification documents. Parents and guardians should monitor internet usage and use parental controls to prevent underage access to gambling sites.

If you need a break from gambling, self-exclusion tools can help you regain control. Most online casinos offer voluntary account blocking for periods ranging from 24 hours to permanent closure. During this time, you cannot access your account or create new ones at the same operator. For broader protection, you can register with GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme that blocks access to all licensed gambling sites. This free service lets you choose exclusion periods of six months, one year, or five years. Once registered, you cannot reverse your decision until the period expires.

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

• GamCare – Offers counselling, support groups, and a national helpline (0808 8020 133) available 24/7
• Gamblers Anonymous – Provides peer support through local meetings across the UK
• National Gambling Helpline – Free confidential advice and support on 0808 8020 133
• BeGambleAware – Information, advice, and access to treatment services via begambleaware.org
• Gordon Moody Association – Residential treatment programmes and ongoing support for severe gambling addiction
• Citizens Advice – Practical guidance on managing gambling-related debt and legal issues
• Samaritans – Emotional support available 24/7 on 116 123 if you’re in distress