Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money. If you feel it is becoming a problem, help is available.
BeGambleAware – Free information and support. begambleaware.org
GamCare – Free counselling and support. gamcare.org.uk
GamStop – Free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed operators. gamstop.co.uk
Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support groups. gamblersanonymous.org.uk
18+ only. Gambling can be addictive. Please play responsibly.
Recognising Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Warning signs include spending more than you can afford, chasing losses in the hope of winning back money, hiding gambling from family or friends, borrowing money to gamble, and neglecting work, relationships, or other responsibilities.
If gambling stops being fun, causes stress or guilt, or interferes with your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Early recognition and support can make a significant difference.
Setting Limits
Licensed UK casinos offer tools to help you stay in control. Deposit limits let you cap how much you can add to your account per day, week, or month. Session time limits restrict how long you can play. Loss limits and cooling-off periods allow you to take a break from gambling.
Set limits before you start playing and stick to them. Treat gambling as entertainment with a budget you can afford to lose, not as a way to make money.
Self-Exclusion Options
GamStop is a free UK-wide self-exclusion scheme. Once registered, you will be excluded from all gambling sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission for a chosen period (minimum 6 months). This applies across all participating operators at once.
Individual casinos also offer their own self-exclusion options. You can contact a casino directly to request exclusion from their site. For more serious cases, consider both GamStop and individual operator exclusion.
Support for Family & Friends
If someone you care about has a gambling problem, support is available for you too. GamCare offers help for family members and friends, including advice on how to approach the subject and where to find further support.
Gamblers Anonymous runs meetings for both problem gamblers and affected others (Gam-Anon). These peer support groups can provide understanding and practical guidance for those close to someone with a gambling addiction.
Useful Resources
BeGambleAware – Free information, advice, and support. begambleaware.org
GamCare – Free counselling, support, and treatment. gamcare.org.uk
GamStop – Free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed operators. gamstop.co.uk
Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support groups. gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Gordon Moody Association – Residential and online treatment for problem gambling. gordonmoody.org.uk
Steps to Stay in Control
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start playing.
Use Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits at your casino account settings.
Take Breaks
Use session time reminders and cooling-off periods to step away.
Seek Help Early
If gambling stops being fun, contact BeGambleAware, GamCare, or GamStop.
Remember
Gambling should always be entertainment, never a way to make money. The odds are designed to favour the house over time. Play for fun, within your means, and know when to stop. If you or someone you know needs help, free confidential support is available 24/7 from the organisations listed above.