Responsible Gaming

A spin should feel like a bit of harmless fun in the garden, never a worry

Important Notice

Gambling can take root and become a habit that's hard to pull up. If it's starting to cast a shadow over your life, please reach out for help right away. You're not on your own here, and support is there for you around the clock.

Signs of Problem Gambling

  • Putting down more than your budget can really spare
  • Letting work, family, or other duties go untended
  • Piling on more bets to win back what you've lost
  • Borrowing money or selling things off to keep playing
  • Fibbing to others about how much you gamble
  • Feeling anxious or low whenever gambling comes to mind
  • Trying to cut back or stop and finding you can't

Tips for Safe Gambling

Set a Budget

Stake only what you'd happily toss on the compost heap.

Set Time Limits

Set a timer and don't let one session sprawl all evening.

Never Chase Losses

A lost round is just a lost round. Take it on the chin and move on.

Take Breaks

Step away from the patch now and then to clear your head.

Self-Assessment: Is Gambling Affecting You?

Be honest with yourself here. These questions come from the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). If you find yourself nodding “yes” to two or more, it's worth reaching out to one of the organizations above.

1

Have you bet more than you could afford to lose in the past 12 months?

2

Have you needed to gamble with larger amounts of money to get the same feeling of excitement?

3

Have you gone back another day to try to win back money you lost?

4

Have you borrowed money or sold anything to get money to gamble?

5

Have you felt that you might have a problem with gambling?

6

Has gambling caused you any health problems, including stress or anxiety?

This isn't a diagnosis, just a gut-check. For a proper assessment, contact GamCare (0808 8020 133) or your local gambling helpline.