Responsible Gambling Practices

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Gambling should be a fun and entertaining activity, not a solution for financial issues or a way to make money. This guide covers the key aspects of responsible gambling and offers advice on how to stay in control of your gambling habits.

What Does Responsible Gambling Mean?

Responsible gambling is about enjoying gambling as a leisure activity while keeping your spending, time, and emotions in check. It includes:

  • Setting limits and sticking to them
  • Being aware of the risks
  • Identifying warning signs
  • Reaching out for help if necessary

How to Set Gambling Limits

Most trustworthy casinos provide tools to help you manage your gambling:

  • Deposit Limits: Choose daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps
  • Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose over a set period
  • Session Time Limits: Limit how long you can play in one sitting
  • Betting Limits: Set a maximum amount per bet

Signs of Problem Gambling

Watch out for these indicators that could suggest a gambling problem:

  • Spending more time or money than you can afford
  • Trying to win back losses with bigger bets
  • Hiding your gambling from others
  • Ignoring work, family, or other obligations
  • Borrowing money to gamble
  • Feeling anxious or low because of gambling
  • Finding it hard to stop or control your gambling

Self-Assessment: Questions to Ask Yourself

Consider these questions honestly:

  • Do you gamble for longer or with more money than you planned?
  • Do you need to increase your bets to feel the same excitement?
  • Have you unsuccessfully tried to cut down or quit gambling?
  • Do you feel restless or irritable when you try to reduce your gambling?
  • Do you gamble to escape problems or negative feelings?
  • Do you hide your gambling from friends or family?

If you answered "yes" to several of these, you might be experiencing gambling problems.

Options for Self-Exclusion

If you need a break from gambling, you can consider these options:

  • Casino Self-Exclusion: Block yourself from specific casinos
  • GAMSTOP: Exclude yourself from all UK-licensed gambling sites
  • Cooling-off Periods: Take short-term breaks from gambling
  • Permanent Exclusion: Opt for long-term or permanent self-exclusion

Where to Get Help

If gambling is becoming a problem, support is available:

  • GamCare: Free advice and counselling (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: Talk to your doctor about gambling concerns

Tips for Gambling Responsibly

Keep these tips in mind to stay in control:

  • Only gamble with money you can afford to lose
  • Set limits on time and money before you start
  • Never try to win back losses
  • Avoid gambling when upset, angry, or feeling down
  • Balance gambling with other hobbies and activities
  • Don’t drink alcohol while gambling
  • Monitor your gambling habits regularly

Advice for Family and Friends

If someone close to you is struggling with gambling:

  • Approach them with empathy and support
  • Encourage them to seek professional help
  • Avoid enabling their gambling by lending money
  • Look after your own wellbeing
  • Consider family counselling or support groups

Summary

Responsible gambling is about staying in control and treating gambling as a form of entertainment. If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s gambling, don’t hesitate to seek help—there are plenty of resources ready to support you.