Responsible gambling
Gambling should cost you entertainment, never security.
Gambling is a form of paid entertainment with a built-in house edge. Over time, you should expect to lose. These tools and services can help keep it that way: fun, and affordable.
Need to talk to someone now?
The National Gambling Helpline is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day: 0808 8020 133.
Before you play
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, never money meant for bills, rent or food.
- Set a deposit limit when you open an account. Every UK-licensed casino must offer one.
- Decide how long you will play and use the reality-check reminders.
- Never gamble to win back losses, to make money, or when upset, stressed or drinking.
Warning signs
- Spending more money or time than you planned, or hiding it from people close to you.
- Borrowing money or selling things to gamble.
- Feeling anxious, guilty or irritable about gambling.
- Chasing losses or finding it hard to stop.
Tools that can help
Deposit limits and time-outs
Set daily, weekly or monthly limits from your casino account. Increases to limits must have a cooling-off period; decreases apply immediately. A time-out blocks your account for a short period.
GAMSTOP self-exclusion
GAMSTOP lets you block yourself from every online gambling site licensed in Great Britain for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. It is free and takes a few minutes at gamstop.co.uk.
Blocking software and bank blocks
Many UK banks let you block gambling transactions from their app. Blocking software can stop gambling websites loading on your devices.
Under 18s
It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK. Licensed operators verify age and identity. If you share a device with children, use parental-control software.