Safer gambling
Responsible Gambling
Gambling should always be entertainment — never a way to make money, escape stress or recover losses. This page explains how to stay in control, the warning signs to watch for, and where to get free, confidential help in the UK. If you need support now, you are not alone.
Stay in control
- Set a budget before you play and treat it as the cost of entertainment. Never gamble money you cannot afford to lose.
- Use deposit limits and reality-check reminders, available at every licensed casino.
- Take regular breaks and use time-outs or cooling-off periods if you need to step away.
- Never chase losses. Trying to win money back is how small losses become big ones.
- Don't gamble when upset, bored, under the influence or to solve money problems.
- Keep it in perspective. The house always has an edge — over time, the odds favour the casino.
Warning signs
It may be time to seek help if you are spending more than you can afford, chasing losses, gambling to escape problems, hiding it from people close to you, borrowing money to gamble, or feeling anxious, guilty or out of control. Recognising these signs early makes them much easier to address.
If gambling has stopped being fun, take a break. Free, confidential support is available 24/7 — you do not have to wait until things feel serious.
Free, confidential help
UK support organisations
GAMSTOP
Free self-exclusion that blocks you from gambling with operators licensed in Great Britain for a period you choose.
gamstop.co.uk →BeGambleAware
Free, confidential advice, tools and the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
begambleaware.org →GamCare
Support, information and free counselling for anyone affected by gambling, including friends and family.
gamcare.org.uk →You can also block gambling sites and apps with tools like Gamban, and many banks let you switch on a gambling block on your card. Support is also available from the NHS and organisations such as the Gordon Moody charity. In an emergency, call 999.