How to Stay in Control

Responsible gambling is the practice of gambling in a way that is safe, controlled, and enjoyable. It involves taking measures to ensure that gambling remains within affordable limits of money and time, and that it does not interfere with other important aspects of life. Responsible gambling also involves being aware of the potential risks associated with gambling, and taking steps to prevent or mitigate these risks.

The concept of responsible gambling is based on the idea that gambling can be a fun and entertaining activity, but it can also be addictive and harmful if not approached with caution. By exercising control and informed choice, individuals can ensure that gambling remains a positive and enjoyable experience.

Responsible gambling is important for a number of reasons. It helps to prevent problem gambling and gambling addiction. By setting limits on time and money spent on gambling, individuals can avoid developing a dependence on gambling as a source of entertainment or income.

A responsible approach to gambling also helps to protect individuals from financial harm. By staying within affordable limits, individuals can avoid spending more money than they can afford to lose. This can prevent them from falling into debt or experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling.

As a major player in the online gambling industry, we believe it is our responsibility to promote a safe and fair gambling environment. By being aware of the potential risks associated with gambling, individuals can take steps to protect themselves and others from harm. This includes being aware of the signs of problem gambling and seeking help when necessary.

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status. It is important to be aware of the signs of problem gambling and seek help if necessary. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Spending more money and time on gambling than intended

• Chasing losses and borrowing money to gamble

• Neglecting personal and professional responsibilities

• Lying to family and friends about gambling habits

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling

• Using gambling as a way to escape problems or emotions

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek help. You can contact a gambling helpline or self-exclude from gambling sites to prevent further harm.

Setting limits is an effective way to control your gambling habits and prevent problem gambling. Here are some limits you can set:

• Time limits: Decide how much time you will spend gambling and stick to it.

• Deposit limits: Set a limit on how much money you can deposit into your account.

• Loss limits: Set a limit on how much money you can lose before stopping.

• Bet limits: Set a limit on how much you can bet per game or per day.

You can set these limits on most gambling sites, and they can help you stay in control of your gambling habits.

Remember, as a player of gambling games, you have a responsibility to gamble responsibly and prevent gambling-related harms. By identifying problem gambling and setting limits, you can enjoy gambling in a safe and responsible way.

Self-exclusion programmes are designed to help you take a break from gambling and can be an effective tool in managing your gambling behaviour. These programmes allow you to voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling activities for a set period of time, ranging from a few months to several years. During this time, you will be unable to access any gambling services or venues that are part of the programme.

There are several self-exclusion programmes available, including:

• GamStop: a free service that allows you to exclude yourself from all UK-based online gambling sites.

• Self-Exclusion Schemes: offered by individual gambling operators, these programmes allow you to exclude yourself from specific venues or online sites.

• Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme (MOSES): a scheme that allows you to exclude yourself from multiple gambling venues, including betting shops and online sites.

If you need help or support with problem gambling, there are various helpline and treatment services available. These services offer confidential advice, support, and counselling for individuals who have problems with gambling in the UK.

Some of the main helpline and treatment services include:

• National Gambling Helpline: a free helpline that offers confidential advice, support, and counselling for anyone who is affected by problem gambling. You can call the helpline on 0808 8020 133 or use the live chat service on the GamCare website.

• GamCare: a national provider of free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. GamCare also provides face-to-face counselling and support groups for individuals and their families.

• National Problem Gambling Clinic: a specialist NHS clinic that provides treatment for individuals with gambling problems. The clinic offers a range of treatment options, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.

Remember, seeking help for problem gambling is a positive step towards regaining control of your gambling behaviour. Don't hesitate to reach out to any of these services if you need support or guidance.

One of the most important measures in ensuring safer gambling is the existence of industry groups that promote responsible gambling. These groups are made up of industry experts who work together to develop and implement responsible gambling policies. The Advisory Board for Safer Gambling (ABSG) is one such group that provides independent advice with the aim of achieving a Great Britain free from the consequences of gambling-related harms.

Another important aspect of safer gambling is ensuring that gambling operators are in compliance with regulations and are properly licensed. Compliance and licensing measures help to ensure that gambling operators are operating in a responsible and ethical manner. The National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms aims to move faster and go further to reduce gambling harms.

In addition to compliance and licensing, there are other measures that you can take to ensure that you are gambling responsibly. These include:

• Setting budget and time limits - there are tools available on many slot machines, mobile and internet gambling sites to help you monitor your play.

• Taking frequent breaks - move around, get some fresh air, have something to eat or a coffee.

• Only gambling with money you have - never gamble with borrowed money or money that you need for other expenses.

• Using self-exclusion tools - many gambling operators offer self-exclusion tools that allow you to exclude yourself from gambling activities for a specified period of time.

• Seeking help if you need it - if you feel that your gambling is becoming a problem, there are resources available to help you.

By taking these measures, you can ensure that you are gambling in a responsible and safe manner. Remember, gambling should always be a form of entertainment and should never be used as a way to make money or solve financial problems.

Gambling can cause anxiety, stress and depression in some people. This can be due to the financial pressures of gambling, the fear of losing money, or the guilt and shame that can come with problem gambling. If you are experiencing any of these feelings, it is important to seek help.

There are a number of support services available to help individuals experiencing anxiety, stress and depression related to gambling. These include:

• National Gambling Helpline: a free, confidential helpline for anyone who is worried about their gambling or the gambling of someone else. You can call them on 0808 8020 133 or visit their website for more information.

• GamCare: a national charity that provides information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. They offer a range of services, including a helpline, online chat and counselling.

Some people are more vulnerable to the harms of gambling than others. This includes people with mental health problems, young people, and those with a history of addiction. If you are in one of these groups, it is important to take extra care when gambling.

There are a number of measures that can be put in place to protect vulnerable persons when gambling. These include:

• Self-exclusion: a voluntary scheme that allows individuals to exclude themselves from gambling for a set period of time. This can be done online or in person at a betting shop or casino.

• Deposit limits: a tool that allows individuals to set a limit on the amount of money they can deposit into their gambling account. This can help to prevent excessive spending.

• Time limits: a tool that allows individuals to set a limit on the amount of time they can spend gambling. This can help to prevent excessive gambling.

If you are concerned about your gambling or the gambling of someone else, it is important to seek help. There are a number of support services available, including those listed above. Remember, gambling should always be done responsibly and within your means.

Having conversations about responsible gambling can help young people make informed decisions and reduce the risk of harm. Here are some tips for promoting responsible conversations:

• Start by asking open-ended questions and actively listening to the responses.

• Avoid lecturing or being judgmental. Instead, focus on providing information and resources.

• Encourage young people to set limits on their gambling activities and to take breaks when needed.

• Provide resources for help and support if needed, such as helplines or counselling services.

Remember, responsible gambling is about having fun while minimizing the risks involved. By setting limits and having open conversations, young people can enjoy gambling in a safe and responsible way.