Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or escape from problems. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, seek help immediately.
Age Verification
In the UK, you must be 18 years or older to gamble legally. Always check the legal gambling age in your local jurisdiction. Gambling sites are required to verify your age and identity, and underage gambling is a serious offence. If you are under 18, do not attempt to gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:
- Chasing losses – gambling more to try to win back money you’ve lost
- Hiding gambling from family or friends, or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money needed for bills, rent, or essentials
- Feeling anxious, guilty, or irritable when trying to cut down or stop
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or stealing to fund gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, depression, or other problems
- Neglecting work, studies, relationships, or personal responsibilities
- Repeatedly trying to stop gambling but being unable to
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, please reach out for support.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable gambling sites offer practical tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly
- Loss limits – cap how much you can lose over a set period
- Reality checks – receive on-screen alerts showing how long you’ve been playing
- Time-outs – take a short break from gambling, typically 24 hours to 6 weeks
- Self-exclusion – block yourself from gambling sites for a longer period, often 6 months to 5 years
- Account history – review your deposits, withdrawals, and bets to understand your behaviour
Support Organisations
If you need help or advice, contact a free and confidential support service in your country:
- UK: GamCare (www.gamcare.org.uk) and GamStop (www.gamstop.co.uk)
- Australia: Gambling Help Online (www.gamblinghelponline.org.au)
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council (www.responsiblegambling.org)
- US: National Council on Problem Gambling (www.ncpgambling.org)
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
- Other countries: Please search for your national responsible gambling or problem gambling support organisation for local, confidential help.
Call to Action
If you feel that gambling is no longer a safe or enjoyable activity, or if you are worried about a loved one, please seek help today. You are not alone – support is free, confidential, and available now. Take the first step and contact one of the organisations listed above.