Responsible Gaming
1. Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Casino gaming should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or attending a sporting event. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose completely.
2. Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in any casino gaming. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to access or use gambling services. Gambling operators have a legal responsibility to verify your age before allowing you to play.
3. Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about gambling activities and the amount of money spent
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (bills, rent, food)
- Unable to reduce or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to finance gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
4. Self-Help Tools
Most reputable casinos offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long and how much you've been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period
- Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your account
Always use these tools proactively to protect yourself and maintain responsible gambling habits.
5. Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, these organizations provide confidential support and advice:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counselling and support for problem gamblers. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme allows you to self-exclude from all online gambling operators in Great Britain. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous: A 12-step support programme for people affected by gambling. Meetings available nationwide.
International Support
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany - Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Information and resources on responsible gambling
6. If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support, and professional assistance is available and confidential. The organisations listed above are staffed by trained professionals who can provide guidance, counselling, and strategies to regain control. You can also speak with your GP, who can provide referrals to specialist services.
Remember: Help is always available, and recovery is possible. Your wellbeing is more important than any wager.