Responsible Gambling
Practical guidance and features designed to help you keep control and treat online casino play as a form of leisure.
Principles of Responsible Gambling
Budget Planning
Use only money you can comfortably set aside. Online casino games should be approached as entertainment rather than a way to make earnings.
- Set monthly or weekly deposit caps
- Avoid trying to recover losses
- Keep play funds separate from essential spending
Manage Your Time
Set a clear time frame for each session. Taking breaks can help you stay focused and reduce the risk of spending longer than intended.
- Step away for a few minutes each hour
- Try not to play late at night
- Choose your session length before you start
Stay Aware of Mood
Pay attention to how you feel before and during play. It may help to avoid gambling when you feel stressed, upset, or pressured.
- Take time out after notable wins or losses
- Don’t rely on gambling to avoid problems
- Keep expectations practical
Warning Signs to Watch For
Loss of Control
Trying to reduce or stop repeatedly without success, or continuing even when it leads to negative outcomes.
Financial Indicators
Borrowing to fund play, selling items, or falling behind on bills in order to gamble.
Behavioural Changes
Spending more time gambling than planned, neglecting everyday tasks, or concealing activity from others.
Emotional Signs
Feeling anxious about results, becoming irritable when not playing, or using gambling as a way to avoid difficulties.
Control Tools & Features
Time-Out Periods
You can choose a temporary break from gambling, typically from 24 hours up to several weeks. During this period, deposits and gameplay are not available.
A time-out can provide space to review your habits and reset routines.
Deposit Limits
UK licensed casinos let you set deposit limits for a day, a week, or a month. If you request an increase, a cooling-off period is normally applied.
These limits can help you keep spending aligned with your budget.
Self-Exclusion (GAMSTOP)
You may choose to self-exclude from UK-licensed online casinos through GAMSTOP for at least five months.
While self-exclusion is active, account access and play are restricted.
Support & Resources
GambleAware
Supports prevention and treatment services addressing gambling harm across Great Britain.
www.gambleaware.orgGamCare
Provides free information, guidance, and support for people affected by gambling-related harm.
www.gamcare.org.ukNational Gambling Helpline
A free and confidential helpline offering advice, support, and referrals to treatment services.
Need Immediate Help?
If you or someone close to you is finding gambling difficult to manage, support is available 24/7 via the National Gambling Helpline.
Calls are free from mobiles and landlines. Assistance is offered in several languages.