Play Responsibly
Your safety and wellbeing are our priority
Safe Gaming is Good Gaming
Gambling should be fun, entertaining, and within your means. When gaming becomes a problem, it stops being enjoyable and can have serious consequences for your finances, relationships, and mental health.
Recognise the Signs
If you notice any of these behaviours, it may be time to take a break:
- Spending more money than you can afford to lose
- Gambling to chase previous losses
- Lying to family or friends about your gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or guilty about gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Gambling for longer than planned
Take Control
All UKGC-licensed operators provide these essential tools:
- Deposit limits - set daily, weekly, or monthly limits
- Time limits - control how long you spend gaming
- Loss limits - cap your losses over set periods
- Session reminders - alerts about time spent playing
- Cooling-off periods - temporary breaks from gambling
- Self-exclusion - block access for 6 months to 5 years
GAMSTOP Self-Exclusion
GAMSTOP is the UK's national self-exclusion scheme. It allows you to put barriers in place to prevent you from gambling with licensed operators.
How it works:
- Free service run by the gambling industry
- Blocks access to all UK licensed gambling sites
- Choose from 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years
- Cannot be undone once activated
- Includes apps, online, and phone betting
Get Help & Support
Professional support is available 24/7. You're not alone, and help is always available.
GamCare
Free, confidential support for anyone affected by gambling problems. Available 24/7 via phone, live chat, or email.
National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
Live Chat: Available on their website
Email: info@gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware
Leading charity providing information, advice, and support to anyone affected by gambling problems.
Website: Comprehensive resources and self-assessment tools
Support: Treatment finder and advice hub
Information: Research and safer gambling guidance
Gordon Moody
Specialist charity providing residential and community-based treatment for gambling addiction.
Residential Treatment: Intensive recovery programmes
Community Support: Local counselling and group therapy
Phone: 01384 241292
Gambling Commission
UK regulator ensuring gambling is fair, safe, and free from crime. Report concerns about licensed operators.
Consumer Advice: Rights and complaints guidance
Safer Gambling: Information and resources
Reporting: Concerns about gambling operators
Safer Gambling Guidelines
Follow these principles to maintain control and enjoy gambling safely.
Do
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Set a budget before you start and stick to it
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Only gamble with money you can afford to lose
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Set time limits for your gambling sessions
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Take regular breaks from gambling
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Keep track of your spending and time
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Use the available responsible gambling tools
Don't
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×Gamble to make money or pay bills
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×Chase your losses by betting more
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×Gamble when you're upset, angry, or depressed
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×Borrow money to gamble
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×Gamble under the influence of alcohol or drugs
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×Neglect family, work, or other responsibilities
Underage Gambling Prevention
Protecting young people from gambling harm is everyone's responsibility.
Age Verification
All UKGC-licensed operators must verify customer age before allowing real money play. This includes:
- Identity document verification
- Address confirmation
- Age database cross-referencing
- Regular compliance monitoring
For Parents
Protect your children from gambling risks:
- Use parental controls on devices and networks
- Monitor online activity and app downloads
- Discuss gambling risks and consequences
- Set clear rules about money and spending
- Seek help if you notice concerning behaviour
Need Help Right Now?
If you're struggling with gambling, support is available 24/7