Responsible Gambling Guidance
Gambling involves a risk of financial loss and addiction. It is not a way to earn money. This page provides practical steps to reduce risk and information about support in the United Kingdom.
Setting Limits On Time And Spending
Effective limit setting is the first step to keeping gambling under control. Decide how much money you can afford to lose before you start. Never change this limit during a session, regardless of winning or losing.
Set a time limit as well. Casinos can be designed to encourage extended sessions. Use your phone alarm or a pre-booked reminder to signal the end of your planned visit. Keep a record of how much time and money you actually spend to stay honest with yourself.
Never Gamble With Borrowed Money Or Essential Funds
Money needed for rent, bills, food, transport or family should never be used for gambling. Borrowing money to gamble is a serious warning sign. If you cannot fund gambling without significant impact on your finances or wellbeing, the safest decision is not to gamble at all.
Avoid Trying To Recover Losses
Chasing losses is a common pattern among individuals who develop gambling problems. The belief that a big win will recover previous losses is false. Each gambling event has an edge for the house, and the longer you play, the more likely you are to lose. The only effective way to guarantee no further losses is to stop.
Recognising Signs Of Gambling Related Harm
Early warning signs include spending more than planned, borrowing money for gambling, lying about the amount of time or money spent, feeling irritable when not gambling, and gambling to escape stress. If you notice any of these patterns, it is important to seek support promptly.
Self Exclusion Options
Self exclusion is a formal tool that prevents you from entering physical casinos or using online gambling accounts for a fixed period. In the UK, the national multi-operator self exclusion scheme covers all licensed operators. Casinos must enforce self exclusions under regulation.
For physical casinos in Great Britain, the national self exclusion scheme, previously operated by GAMSTOP for online and a separate scheme for bricks and mortar venues, allows you to block yourself from all licensed premises.
Support Resources In The United Kingdom
- GamCare: Leading UK provider of free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers.
- BeGambleAware (NHS): The NHS National Gambling Clinic offers treatment and support through the UK National Health Service.
- Gamblers Anonymous UK: Peer-led support groups operating in many UK cities.
Please note that these are established national organisations. For the most current support options, contact the National Gambling Helpline through your preferred search or a healthcare professional.
Our Commitment
This website is intended for adults aged 18 and over. We do not provide links to gambling operators, promotional offers, bonuses or deposit schemes. Our site focuses on hotel accommodation and factual property information. Our goal is to inform, not to encourage gambling.