Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling means keeping play safe, controlled, and enjoyable.

Gambling should be treated as entertainment, not a way to make money.

If it stops being fun, it is time to pause and take action.

Keep it fun: practical steps

Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.

Decide in advance how much time you will spend and take regular breaks.

Avoid chasing losses and do not increase stakes to “win it back”.

Do not gamble when you feel stressed, upset, tired, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Balance gambling with other activities so it does not take over your routine.

Use control tools

Licensed operators in the UK provide tools that help you stay in control.

Common tools include deposit limits, loss limits, session limits, and reality checks.

Cooling-off periods let you take a short break from gambling for a chosen time.

Self-exclusion blocks access for a longer period and cannot be reversed until it ends.

GAMSTOP self-exclusion

GAMSTOP is the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.

If you register, it will stop you from using gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain that are part of the scheme.

You can choose a self-exclusion period and your access will remain blocked until it expires.

If you think you need a full reset, GAMSTOP is one of the most effective steps you can take.

Warning signs

Problem gambling can be difficult to spot early, especially when it develops gradually.

Common warning signs include:

• Spending more money or time than you planned.
• Chasing losses or increasing stakes to recover losses.
• Borrowing money or selling things to gamble.
• Hiding gambling from friends or family.
• Feeling anxious, irritated, or low when not gambling.
• Gambling to escape stress or difficult emotions.
• Missing work, study, or important commitments because of gambling.

Protecting young people

Gambling is for adults only.

If you share devices with others, use parental controls and account protections to prevent underage access.

Keep payment methods secure and do not save card details on shared devices.

Where to get help in the UK

If you feel gambling is becoming a problem, support is available.

You can speak to your GP or contact specialist services for confidential advice.

Common sources of help include:

• GamCare
• National Gambling Helpline
• Gambling Therapy
• Gordon Moody
• GAMSTOP

Safer play checklist

Before you start, ask yourself:

Can I afford to lose this money today.

Do I have a clear time limit.

Am I gambling for fun rather than to solve money problems.

Will I stop if I feel stressed or frustrated.

If any answer is no, take a break and come back later.

Contact

If you need immediate help, reach out to a trusted person or a professional support service.

If you are in crisis or feel at risk of self-harm, call emergency services immediately.