Responsible Gambling Practices

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Gambling is meant to be enjoyable and entertaining, not a way to solve financial problems or earn money. This guide highlights the main principles of responsible gambling and provides tips to help you maintain control over your gambling behavior.

What Is Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling means treating gambling as a recreational activity and managing your time, money, and emotions wisely. This involves:

  • Establishing limits and adhering to them
  • Understanding the potential risks
  • Recognizing warning signs
  • Seeking assistance when needed

How to Set Gambling Limits

Reputable casinos offer various tools to help you control your gambling:

  • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly maximum deposit amounts
  • Loss Limits: Cap the amount you can lose within a certain timeframe
  • Session Time Limits: Restrict the duration of your gambling sessions
  • Betting Limits: Define the maximum stake per bet

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be alert for these signs that may indicate a gambling issue:

  • Spending more time or money than you can afford
  • Chasing losses by placing larger bets
  • Concealing your gambling from others
  • Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities
  • Borrowing money to gamble
  • Feeling anxious or depressed due to gambling
  • Struggling to stop or control your gambling

Self-Assessment: Questions to Consider

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do you gamble for longer periods or spend more than you intended?
  • Do you need to increase your bets to achieve the same excitement?
  • Have you tried unsuccessfully to reduce or quit gambling?
  • Do you feel restless or irritable when attempting to cut back?
  • Do you gamble to escape problems or negative emotions?
  • Do you hide your gambling from friends or family?

If you answered "yes" to several of these, you may be facing gambling-related difficulties.

Self-Exclusion Options

If you need to take a break from gambling, consider these measures:

  • Casino Self-Exclusion: Prevent yourself from accessing specific casinos
  • GAMSTOP: Block access to all UK-licensed gambling websites
  • Cooling-off Periods: Take temporary breaks from gambling
  • Permanent Exclusion: Choose long-term or permanent self-exclusion

Where to Find Help

If gambling is becoming problematic, there are resources available:

  • GamCare: Free support and counseling (0808 8020 133)
  • Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support groups for those affected by gambling
  • National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
  • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, available 24/7)
  • Your GP: Speak to your doctor about gambling concerns

Tips for Responsible Gambling

Follow these suggestions to maintain control:

  • Only gamble with money you can afford to lose
  • Set time and money limits before you start playing
  • Never try to recover losses by gambling more
  • Avoid gambling when feeling upset, angry, or down
  • Balance gambling with other interests and activities
  • Do not consume alcohol while gambling
  • Regularly review your gambling habits

Guidance for Family and Friends

If someone you care about is struggling with gambling:

  • Approach them with understanding and support
  • Encourage them to seek professional assistance
  • Do not enable their gambling by lending money
  • Take care of your own wellbeing
  • Consider family counseling or support groups

Conclusion

Responsible gambling means staying in control and viewing gambling as entertainment. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s gambling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help—many resources are available to support you.