Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, it’s time to step back and seek help.
Age Verification
In Great Britain, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble. All licensed operators are required by law to verify your age and identity before you can deposit or play. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to account closure and forfeiture of winnings.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Ask yourself honestly if any of the following apply to you:
- Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have lost by gambling more.
- Hiding your gambling from family or friends, or lying about how much time or money you spend.
- Gambling with money meant for essentials like rent, bills, or food.
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or taking out loans to gamble.
- Neglecting work, studies, relationships, or responsibilities because of gambling.
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Thinking about gambling constantly, even when not actively playing.
If you recognise several of these signs, you may be at risk. Seeking help early is the best step you can take.
Self-Help Tools
Most licensed UK gambling sites offer practical tools to help you stay in control. These are usually available in your account settings:
- Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month.
- Loss limits – cap the amount you can lose over a set period.
- Reality checks – receive pop-up reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Time-outs – take a short break from your account, from 24 hours up to 6 weeks.
- Self-exclusion – block yourself from gambling for a longer period, usually 6 months to 5 years or permanently.
- Account history – review your deposits, withdrawals, and bets to understand your behaviour.
Support Organizations
If you need confidential advice or support, contact a specialist organisation in your country. Help is free, independent, and available 24/7 in many cases.
- United Kingdom: GamCare – call 0808 8020 133 or use live chat. Also GamStop – free self-exclusion for all UK-licensed sites.
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – call 1800 858 858.
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – resources and support across provinces.
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – information and helpline for gambling addiction.
- Other countries: Please search for your national responsible gambling helpline or visit Gambling Therapy for global online support.
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out to a support service today. You are not alone, and recovery is possible. Contact GamCare (UK) on 0808 8020 133, or visit GamStop to self-exclude from all UK licensed gambling sites in minutes. Taking that first step is a sign of strength — not weakness.