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Responsible Gambling

Gambling should always remain an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to make money or escape from problems. We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and providing our players with the tools and information needed to maintain control over their gaming activities. This comprehensive guide outlines the principles of responsible gambling, warning signs to watch for, and resources available to help you or someone you know who may be experiencing gambling-related difficulties.

1. Understanding Problem Gambling

Problem gambling, also known as gambling addiction or gambling disorder, is a serious condition that affects individuals from all walks of life. It occurs when gambling stops being fun and starts causing significant problems in a person’s life, including financial, emotional, and social difficulties. Unlike responsible gambling, where individuals maintain control over their gambling activities, problem gambling involves a loss of control that can lead to devastating consequences.

The transition from recreational gambling to problem gambling can happen gradually and often goes unnoticed initially. What starts as occasional entertainment can develop into a compulsive behaviour that interferes with daily life, relationships, and responsibilities. Understanding this progression is crucial for early intervention and prevention.

2. Recognising Warning Signs and Symptoms

Early recognition of problem gambling signs is essential for seeking timely help. These warning signs may manifest in various aspects of an individual’s life and behaviour patterns:

  • Spending more time and money gambling than originally intended
  • Chasing losses by gambling more frequently or with larger amounts
  • Lying to family and friends about gambling activities
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
  • Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
  • Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when not gambling
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
  • Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
  • Continuing to gamble despite significant losses
  • Preoccupation with gambling and planning the next gambling session

3. Setting Personal Limits and Boundaries

Establishing clear limits before you begin gambling is one of the most effective ways to maintain control. These boundaries should be realistic, sustainable, and strictly adhered to regardless of wins or losses. Time limits help prevent extended gambling sessions that can lead to impaired judgment, while financial limits protect your essential funds and prevent overspending.

Consider your disposable income carefully and never gamble with money needed for essential expenses such as rent, utilities, food, or transportation. Set both daily and monthly limits, and review these regularly to ensure they remain appropriate for your financial situation. Remember that these limits should be viewed as maximum amounts, not targets to reach.

4. Deposit and Spending Controls

Modern gambling platforms offer sophisticated tools to help players control their spending. Deposit limits allow you to set maximum amounts that can be deposited into your account over specific periods:

  • Daily deposit limits for short-term control
  • Weekly limits for medium-term budget management
  • Monthly limits for comprehensive financial planning
  • Loss limits to cap potential losses over set periods
  • Wager limits to control individual bet amounts
  • Reality checks that remind you of time spent gambling

These tools are designed to be user-friendly and can typically be adjusted downward immediately, while increases may have cooling-off periods to prevent impulsive decisions during emotional moments.

5. Time Management and Session Controls

Time can pass quickly during gambling sessions, making it easy to lose track of how long you have been playing. Effective time management involves setting specific durations for gambling activities and using available tools to enforce these limits. Many platforms offer session time limits and reality check notifications that alert you at predetermined intervals.

Plan your gambling activities as you would any other entertainment, allocating specific time slots that do not interfere with work, sleep, family time, or other important activities. Taking regular breaks during longer sessions helps maintain clear thinking and prevents fatigue-induced poor decision-making.

6. Self-Exclusion and Cooling-Off Periods

Self-exclusion is a powerful tool that allows individuals to restrict their access to gambling services for predetermined periods. This voluntary measure provides a complete break from gambling activities and can be implemented for various durations, from short-term cooling-off periods to permanent exclusions.

Temporary exclusions, often called “time-outs,” can last from 24 hours to several months, providing breathing space to reassess gambling habits and seek support if needed. Longer-term self-exclusion periods may last six months, one year, or longer, offering more comprehensive protection for those with serious gambling concerns.

7. Support Services and Professional Help

Numerous organisations in the UK provide free, confidential support for individuals affected by gambling problems. These services offer various forms of assistance, from initial advice to comprehensive treatment programmes:

  • GamCare provides free information, advice, and support through helplines, online chat, and face-to-face counselling
  • Gamblers Anonymous offers peer support through regular meetings and a twelve-step recovery programme
  • BeGambleAware provides educational resources and treatment referrals
  • National Problem Gambling Clinic offers specialised residential and outpatient treatment
  • Gordon Moody Association provides residential programmes and ongoing support
  • Samaritans offer 24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress

8. Financial Protection Strategies

Protecting your finances involves creating barriers between your gambling activities and essential funds. Consider opening separate accounts for gambling funds, removing credit cards from gambling sites, and asking trusted family members or friends to help monitor your spending patterns.

Avoid using credit cards or loans for gambling purposes, as this can quickly lead to unmanageable debt. If you find yourself considering borrowing money to gamble, this is a clear warning sign that professional help should be sought immediately.

9. Protecting Minors and Vulnerable Individuals

Protecting children and vulnerable individuals from gambling-related harm is everyone’s responsibility. Parents and guardians should be aware of the gambling content their children may encounter online and maintain open conversations about gambling risks:

  • Use parental control software to block gambling websites
  • Monitor children’s online activities and spending patterns
  • Educate young people about gambling risks and responsible behaviour
  • Keep gambling activities private and avoid glamorising wins
  • Seek professional help if a minor shows signs of problem gambling
  • Report underage gambling to relevant authorities and operators

10. Creating a Support Network

Building a strong support network is crucial for maintaining responsible gambling habits. This network might include family members, friends, counsellors, or support group members who understand your situation and can provide encouragement during difficult times.

Be honest with trusted individuals about your gambling activities and ask for their support in maintaining your limits and boundaries. Having someone to talk to about concerns or urges can prevent minor issues from developing into serious problems.

11. Alternative Activities and Healthy Coping Strategies

Developing alternative activities and healthy coping strategies helps reduce reliance on gambling for entertainment or stress relief. Consider pursuing hobbies, sports, social activities, or creative pursuits that provide satisfaction and enjoyment without financial risk.

Learn healthy stress management techniques such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or counselling. Address underlying issues that may contribute to problematic gambling, such as depression, anxiety, or financial stress, through appropriate professional support.

12. Regular Self-Assessment and Ongoing Monitoring

Regular self-assessment helps maintain awareness of your gambling habits and their impact on your life. Honest reflection on your motivations, spending patterns, and emotional responses to gambling can help identify changes that may indicate developing problems.

Schedule regular reviews of your gambling limits, spending patterns, and overall well-being. Consider keeping a gambling diary to track your activities, emotions, and outcomes. If you notice concerning patterns or changes in your behaviour, take action immediately by adjusting your limits, taking a break, or seeking professional support.

Remember that responsible gambling is an ongoing commitment that requires constant attention and adjustment. By utilising available tools, maintaining clear boundaries, and seeking support when needed, you can ensure that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable form of entertainment rather than a source of problems in your life.

Last updated: January 2024