Responsible Gaming

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment – never a way to earn money or solve financial difficulties. Always play within your means, set clear limits, and never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, it is time to take a break.

Age Verification

In Great Britain, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. Licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before you can deposit or play. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble, and we strongly encourage parents and guardians to use parental controls and keep account details secure.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have lost by gambling more.
• Hiding gambling activity from friends or family, or lying about time and money spent.
• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended or can afford.
• Neglecting work, studies, family, or social responsibilities because of gambling.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions, or using funds needed for essentials to gamble.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, irritable, or depressed when trying to cut down or stop.
• Gambling to escape from stress, anxiety, or other problems.
• Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.

Self-Help Tools

Most UK licensed gambling sites offer practical tools to help you stay in control. Use them proactively, even if you feel you are gambling safely:

• Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month.
• Loss limits – cap how much you are willing to lose over a set period.
• Reality checks – receive on-screen reminders of how long you have been playing.
• Time-outs – take a short break from your account for 24 hours up to several weeks.
• Self-exclusion – block yourself from one or all UK gambling sites using GAMSTOP (free, nationwide scheme).
• Account closure – permanently close your account with any individual operator.

Support Organisations

If you need free, confidential advice or support, contact the appropriate organisation for your country. You are not alone – help is available.

• United Kingdom
  – GamCare (National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133, live chat and forums)
  – GamStop (free self-exclusion from all UK licensed sites)
• Australia
  – Gambling Help Online (24/7 counselling and support)
• Canada
  – Responsible Gambling Council (resources, self-assessment, and local help)
• United States
  – National Council on Problem Gambling (helpline 1-800-522-4700, text and chat)
• Germany
  – Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) (information and local advice on gambling addiction)
• Other countries
  – Please search for your national responsible gambling organisation or contact your local health service for guidance.

Need Help? Act Now

If you recognise any warning signs in yourself, or if gambling is causing stress, financial harm, or affecting your relationships, please seek help today. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 for free, confidential support, or register with GamStop to exclude yourself from all UK gambling sites. You can also speak to a trusted friend, family member, or your GP.