Responsible Gaming
Gambling should only ever be entertainment. This page explains the tools every UK casino must provide, the warning signs to watch for, and where to get free, confidential help — for yourself or someone else.
Get help now — BeGambleAware.orgGolden rules for safer play
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose — never with money set aside for bills, rent or savings.
- Decide your budget and time limit before you start, and stop when you reach either one.
- Never chase losses. Money lost gambling should be treated as the cost of the entertainment.
- Don't gamble when upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol.
- Balance gambling with other activities — it should never be your main hobby or income plan.
- Use the safer gambling tools below. They exist to keep the experience fun.
Tools every UK casino must offer
Spend limits
Every UKGC-licensed casino must offer daily, weekly and monthly spend limits. Set one before your first session — decreases apply immediately, increases only after a cooling-off period.
Time-outs
Take a short break of 24 hours to 6 weeks. Your account is frozen and the casino must not send you marketing during this time.
Reality checks
On-screen reminders showing how long you've been playing and your net position. We recommend setting them at 30-minute intervals.
Self-exclusion & GAMSTOP
Exclude yourself from a single casino, or register free with GAMSTOP to block yourself from every UK-licensed gambling website and app for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
Warning signs to take seriously
If one or more of these sounds familiar, it's worth talking to someone — support is free, confidential and judgement-free.
- Spending more money or time gambling than you planned
- Chasing losses or gambling to win back money
- Borrowing money, selling possessions or missing bills to gamble
- Hiding your gambling from family or friends
- Feeling anxious, guilty or irritable about your gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, boredom or low mood
Free support services
National Gambling Helpline (GamCare) ↗
Free, confidential advice 24/7 by phone or live chat.
0808 8020 133
GambleAware ↗
Information, self-assessment tools and treatment referrals.
gambleaware.org
GAMSTOP ↗
Free self-exclusion from all UK-licensed online gambling.
gamstop.co.uk
Gamblers Anonymous UK ↗
Peer support meetings across the UK and online.
gamblersanonymous.org.uk
NHS National Problem Gambling Clinic ↗
Specialist NHS treatment for gambling-related harm.
Via GP or self-referral
Worried about someone else?
GamCare offers dedicated support for friends and family affected by someone else's gambling. Call the National Gambling Helpline free on 0808 8020 133— it's open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.