Principles of Responsible Gambling
Financial Control
Spend only what you can comfortably lose, and view casino games as entertainment rather than income.
- Keep gambling funds separate from everyday costs
- Set monthly or weekly deposit limits
- Avoid chasing losses
Set Time Limits
Decide in advance how long you will play and stick to clear time boundaries. Taking breaks can help you keep perspective and reduce excessive sessions.
- Plan session duration ahead of time
- Take a short pause roughly every 60–90 minutes
- Try to avoid gaming late at night
Emotional Awareness
Pay attention to how your mood affects decisions. It’s usually best not to play when you feel stressed, upset, or pressured.
- Pause after a big win or a notable loss
- Do not use gambling as a way to avoid problems
- Keep expectations realistic
Warning Signs to Watch For
Behavioural Changes
Spending more and more time gambling, neglecting day-to-day responsibilities, or keeping activity secret.
Loss of Control
Trying to cut back without success, or continuing even when there are clear negative consequences.
Emotional Signs
Feeling anxious about results, becoming irritable when not playing, or relying on gambling to avoid difficulties.
Financial Indicators
Borrowing money to gamble, selling items, or missing regular bills to fund casino play.
Control Tools & Features
Time-Out Periods
Short breaks from gambling that can last from 48 hours to several weeks. During this period, deposits and gameplay are not available.
Time-outs can be useful if you want space to review your habits.
Deposit Limits
UK-licensed casinos typically let you set deposit limits for daily, weekly, or monthly periods. Any increase usually requires a cooling-off period.
These settings help you stay within a budget you choose.
Self-Exclusion (GAMSTOP)
You can register with GAMSTOP to self-exclude from UK-licensed online casinos for a minimum period of 12 months.
While active, you will not be able to access accounts or place bets.
Support & Resources
GambleAware
Supports prevention and treatment services for gambling harm across Great Britain.
www.gambleaware.orgNational Gambling Helpline
A free and confidential helpline offering guidance, support, and referrals to treatment.
GamCare
Free information, practical advice, and support for people affected by gambling-related harm.
www.gamcare.org.ukNeed Immediate Help?
If you or someone close to you is finding gambling difficult to manage, support is available at any time through the National Gambling Helpline.
Calls are free from both landlines and mobile phones, and help is available in several languages.