Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be fun, not a source of stress or financial hardship. Learn how to gamble responsibly, recognise the signs of problem gambling, and find help if you need it.
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, free confidential support is available 24/7.
Call 0808 8020 133What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling means enjoying gambling as a form of entertainment while staying in control of how much time and money you spend. It's about making informed decisions, understanding the risks, and knowing when to stop.
For most people, gambling is a harmless leisure activity. However, for some, it can become problematic and lead to serious financial, emotional, and relationship difficulties. That's why it's crucial to gamble responsibly and seek help early if you notice warning signs.
Healthy Gambling Looks Like
- Setting a budget and sticking to it
- Viewing gambling as entertainment, not income
- Taking regular breaks
- Balancing gambling with other activities
- Never gambling when upset or stressed
Problem Gambling Looks Like
- Chasing losses to win money back
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Lying about gambling habits
- Neglecting work, family, or responsibilities
- Feeling anxious or depressed about gambling
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Recognising the warning signs early can help you or someone you care about get support before things escalate. Ask yourself honestly if any of these apply:
- 1 Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
- 2 Finding it hard to manage or stop your gambling
- 3 Having arguments with family or friends about money and gambling
- 4 Losing interest in usual activities or hobbies
- 5 Always thinking or talking about gambling
- 6 Lying about your gambling or hiding it from others
- 7 Chasing losses or gambling to get out of financial trouble
- 8 Gambling until all your money is gone
- 9 Borrowing money, selling possessions, or not paying bills to fund gambling
- 10 Feeling anxious, worried, guilty, or irritable
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it may be time to seek help. Remember, problem gambling is a recognised condition and support is available.
Tools to Help You Stay in Control
UK-licensed casinos are required to offer responsible gambling tools. Use these features to help manage your gambling:
GamStop Self-Exclusion
Register with GamStop to self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling sites for 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
Learn moreDeposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits at your chosen casino to control spending.
Reality Checks
Enable pop-up reminders that show how long you've been playing and your session results.
Time-Outs
Take a short break from gambling for 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days.
Account Closure
Permanently close your casino account if you feel you need to stop gambling entirely.
Gambling Blocking Software
Use apps like Gamban or BetBlocker to block gambling sites on all your devices.
Learn moreGamStop Self-Exclusion
GamStop is the UK's free self-exclusion scheme. Once registered, you'll be prevented from using all UK-licensed gambling websites and apps for your chosen period: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
Registration is free and takes about 10 minutes. You'll need your name, date of birth, email address, and UK postcode.
Register with GamStopHelp and Support Organisations
If you're worried about your gambling or affected by someone else's gambling, these organisations offer free, confidential support:
BeGambleAware
Free, confidential help and support for anyone affected by gambling.
GamCare
Support and counselling for anyone harmed by gambling.
Gambling Therapy
Free online support and practical advice for gambling addiction.
Citizens Advice
Free advice on debt problems caused by gambling.
Tips for Gambling Responsibly
Follow these guidelines to keep your gambling fun and under control:
1 Set a Budget
Before you start, decide how much you can afford to lose. Never gamble with money you need for bills, rent, or essentials. Once your budget is gone, stop.
2 Set Time Limits
Decide in advance how long you'll play. Use casino reality check features or set a timer on your phone. Take regular breaks.
3 Never Chase Losses
Accept that losing is part of gambling. Trying to win back losses usually leads to bigger losses. If you've hit your limit, walk away.
4 Don't Gamble When Emotional
Avoid gambling when you're upset, stressed, depressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These states impair judgment.
5 Keep It Fun
Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money. The odds always favour the house. If it stops being fun, take a break.
6 Balance Your Life
Make sure gambling doesn't take over. Maintain relationships, hobbies, work, and other activities that matter to you.
Remember: Help is Available
If gambling is no longer fun or you're worried about your habits, don't face it alone. Free, confidential support is just a phone call away.