Responsible Gaming

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial difficulties. While most people gamble responsibly, for some it can become a problem. This page explains how to recognise the signs of problem gambling and where to find help.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years or older to gamble in Great Britain. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to gamble online. Operators are required to verify your age and identity before you can deposit or play. If you are under 18, do not attempt to gamble.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Ask yourself if any of the following apply to you:

• Chasing losses – returning to try to win back money you have lost
• Hiding your gambling from family or friends
• Spending more time or money on gambling than you intended
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
• Neglecting work, study, or relationships because of gambling
• Feeling anxious, guilty, or irritable when trying to cut down
• Lying about how much you gamble
• Using gambling as a way to escape from stress or low mood

If you recognise any of these signs, please seek help. The earlier you act, the easier it is to regain control.

Self-Help Tools

Most licensed gambling sites offer tools to help you stay in control. These include:

• 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 reminders of how long you have been playing
• Time-outs – take a short break from gambling for 24 hours up to several weeks
• Self-exclusion – block yourself from gambling for a longer period, usually 6 months to 5 years

Use these tools proactively, even if you do not think you have a problem. They are there to protect you.

Support Organisations

If you are worried about your own gambling or someone else’s, contact a free and confidential support service in your country.

United Kingdom

• GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk – Free helpline: 0808 8020 133
• GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk – Free self-exclusion from UK gambling sites

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free 24/7 support

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org – Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – www.bzga.de – Free helpline: 0800 1 37 27 00

Other Countries

If you are outside the regions listed above, please search for your national problem gambling helpline or visit www.gamblingtherapy.org for international support.

Seek Help Now

If you believe you have a gambling problem, do not wait. Reach out to a support organisation today. Talking to someone is the first step towards recovery. Gambling should never harm your health, finances, or relationships. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.