Responsible Gaming

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial difficulties. While most people gamble responsibly, for some it can become a problem. Please read this page carefully and use the tools and resources available to keep your play safe and enjoyable.

Age Verification

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to gamble in the UK. All UK-licensed gambling operators are required by law to verify your age and identity before you can deposit, play, or withdraw. You may be asked to provide proof of age and address, such as a passport, driving licence, or utility bill. If you are under 18, or if you are concerned that a minor is accessing gambling services, please seek help immediately.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone. Ask yourself honestly if any of the following apply to you:

• Chasing losses – gambling more to try to win back money you have lost.
• Hiding your gambling from family, friends, or colleagues.
• Spending more time or money on gambling than you intended.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions, or using money meant for essentials to gamble.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, or irritable when trying to cut down or stop.
• Neglecting work, studies, relationships, or self-care because of gambling.
• Lying about how much you gamble or how much you have lost.
• Gambling to escape from stress, depression, or other problems.

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, please seek support using the resources below.

Self-Help Tools

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

• Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
• Loss limits – cap the amount you are willing to lose over a set period.
• Reality checks – receive on-screen reminders of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.
• Time-outs – take a short break from gambling, usually from 24 hours up to several weeks.
• Self-exclusion – block yourself from a specific gambling site for a set period, typically six months to five years.

For a UK-wide self-exclusion from all licensed online gambling sites, register with GAMSTOP (see below). Self-exclusion is free, confidential, and can be a vital first step if you feel your gambling is out of control.

Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, free and confidential help is available. Please contact the organisation relevant to your country or region:

• United Kingdom (UK):
  GamCare – National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7).
  GAMSTOP – Free online self-exclusion for UK residents.
• Australia:
  Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support 24/7.
• Canada:
  Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) – Information and support for safer gambling.
• United States (US):
  National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER.
• Germany:
  Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Information and help for gambling addiction.
• Other countries or regions:
  Please search for your national responsible gambling organisation or contact a local health professional. Many countries operate free, confidential helplines for gambling-related harm.

If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Now

You are not alone. Problem gambling is a recognised condition, and help is available. Reaching out to a support organisation or speaking to someone you trust can make a real difference. Use the self-help tools on your gambling site, consider self-exclusion, and contact a professional service today. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can regain control.