Responsible Gambling

Gambling is an exciting and fun adult leisure pursuit and provides an enjoyable experience for millions of people worldwide.

Whilst the majority of people do gamble within their means, for some gambling can become a problem. It may help you to keep control to remember the following:

• Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way of making money
• Avoid chasing losses
• Only gamble what you can afford to lose
• Keep track of the time and amount you spend gambling

Do you have a problem?

If you are concerned that gambling may have taken over your (or someone else's life) then the following questions may help you find out:

• Do you stay away from work, college or school to gamble?
• Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
• When gambling and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and need to gamble again as soon as possible?
• Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even the fare home or the cost of a cup of tea?
• Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time you have spent gambling?
• Have others ever criticised your gambling?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends or hobbies?
• After losing, do you feel you must try and win back your losses as soon as possible?
• Do arguments, frustrations or disappointments make you want to gamble?
• Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gambling?

Getting Help from Providers

All betting and gaming providers should be able to help you stay within your limits. This might include placing a limit on the time you spend playing, limiting the amount of money you can deposit in a particular day or other timeframe, and if you wish they can exclude you altogether. 

Further Help

If you think that you have a problem and would like some help, there are a number of organisations that will provide help:

www.gambleaware.co.uk

www.gamcare.org.uk

www.gamblingtherapy.org.uk