Responsible gambling

Gambling is for adults aged 18 or over and should always be treated as entertainment. When the cost — in money, time or mood — outweighs the fun, it’s time to stop or to ask for help.

Warning signs

• Spending more than you planned, or chasing losses.
• Borrowing money, missing bills or hiding gambling from people close to you.
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety or low mood.
• Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling.

Practical steps

• Set a deposit limit and stick to it.
• Use time-out and self-exclusion when you need a break.
• Block gambling sites at network level if useful, and remove saved cards.
• Keep gambling money separate from rent, bills and savings.

Get help

• GamCare — free 24/7 helpline on 0808 8020 133 and online chat.
• GAMSTOP — one self-exclusion across UK-licensed online operators.
• BeGambleAware — information and access to NHS-supported treatment.
• UK Gambling Commission — the regulator for gambling in Great Britain.