Responsible Gambling: Keeping the Fun Alive

Engaging in online gambling should be an enjoyable pastime for most individuals, offering a leisurely way to spend one’s free time. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that for a small subset, online gambling can pose challenges.

While the vast majority of our online patrons will never encounter issues, responsible gaming isn’t solely for those facing gambling problems or those most susceptible to developing them. It’s a fundamental approach that benefits EVERYONE.

Across all our platforms, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where customers can keep the enjoyment intact. This involves endorsing and showcasing gambling operators committed to safe and responsible online gambling practices. Moreover, we offer resources and support to individuals who may find it challenging to maintain control over their gambling activities.

The UK-licensed websites we recommend offer several helpful functionalities to promote responsible gambling:

• Reality Checks: These provide timely prompts to help you manage the duration of your online gaming sessions.

• Deposit Limits: You have the option to set financial limits for yourself, which can be adjusted based on your preferences and can range from daily to monthly limits.
• Gambling Activity History: You can easily access and review your gambling activity history, including transactions, deposits, and withdrawals, to stay informed about your gaming habits.
• Take A Break/Time-outs: You can opt for a break period ranging from 24 hours to 6 weeks to step away from gaming when needed.
• Self-Exclusion: This feature allows you to voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing the website for a specified period, ranging from days to years, if you feel the need to take a more extended break.
• Autoplay Controls: For players who enjoy using the autoplay feature, you’ll be prompted to set your stake and loss limits before starting. Additionally, you’ll always have the option to stop or pause the game whenever you choose.

How can I know I have a problem?

Recognizing whether your gambling habits have become problematic can be crucial for taking control of your gaming experience. Consider the following questions as a self-assessment:

1. Do you find yourself gambling alone for extended periods, neglecting other responsibilities or activities?

2. Have you found the need to increase your gambling stakes continuously to achieve the same level of excitement?

3. Do you experience mood swings, irritability, or agitation due to your gambling activities?

4. Do you use gambling as a means to escape from other issues or problems in your life?

5. Do you conceal your gambling losses from friends or family members?

6. Have you attempted unsuccessfully to reduce the time or money spent on gambling in the past?

7. Have you ever been tempted to engage in dishonest behavior to finance your gambling?

8. Do you frequently return to gambling, on separate occasions, to recoup previous losses?

9. Have you kept your gambling habits hidden from significant people in your life?

10. Have you borrowed money that you cannot repay due to gambling, or are you in debt as a result of gambling?

11. Have you sold personal belongings to fund gambling activities or repay gambling-related debts?

12. Have you broken promises to loved ones to indulge in gambling instead?

13. Do you feel socially isolated because of your gambling habits?

Answering “yes” to any of these questions may indicate that your gambling is becoming problematic. In such cases, it’s essential to take control of your gambling behavior. Additionally, you can utilize resources such as the confidential ‘Concerned about your gambling’ quiz on the BeGambleAware website for further insight into your situation.

What should I do if I have a problem?

If you suspect that you have a problem, the initial step toward regaining control is to be entirely honest with yourself and acknowledge the issue. By doing this, you’ve already taken the most significant stride toward addressing the problem. Simply recognizing that you’ve been exhibiting some of the behaviors mentioned earlier may prompt you to reevaluate your actions and regain control. However, if you feel that you require assistance, guidance, or support, don’t hesitate to seek help from trusted friends, family members, or support organizations. Remember, recognizing the problem and seeking help are signs of strength, not weakness.

Never be shy or afraid to ask for help. These practical steps will help you keep your cool:

• Set limits on your deposits, spending, or the time you spend gambling online. Many reputable gaming websites offer tools that allow you to set your own limits on expenditure.
• If you find it challenging to control your gambling despite setting limits, consider self-excluding yourself from all the websites or platforms where you usually gamble or play. Taking a break from all forms of gambling may be the best option for regaining control.
• If you wish to block access to other gaming, wagering, or gambling websites on the internet, you can visit www.gamblock.com, which provides tools to help you achieve this.
• Keep track of your progress by using a calendar to mark each day that you refrain from gambling. This visual aid can help you see the strides you’re making in controlling your gambling habits.

For immediate assistance and support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the following organizations and helplines:

National Gambling Helpline: Call 1800 858 858
GamCare: Visit the GamCare Website
Gamblers Anonymous: Visit the Gamblers Anonymous Website
Breakeven: Visit the Breakeven Website
Gambling Therapy: Visit the Gambling Therapy Website
NHS England: Locate your nearest NHS England Gambling Clinic