Last Updated: September 30, 2025
Gambling should be entertaining and enjoyable but it is important to stay in control. This page provides information and resources to help you gamble responsibly and recognize when gambling may be becoming a problem. We believe in promoting safe gambling practices and supporting those who need help.
Responsible gambling means making informed decisions about your betting activities and staying within limits you can afford. It involves understanding the risks, setting boundaries, and recognizing that gambling is entertainment not a way to make money. Most people can gamble without problems but for some it can lead to harmful behaviors that affect finances relationships and mental health. Being aware of the risks is the first step to staying safe.
Before you start gambling decide how much money and time you can afford to spend and stick to those limits. Never chase losses by betting more to try to win back what you have lost. Set a budget that does not include money needed for bills rent food or other essentials. Take regular breaks and avoid gambling when you are upset stressed or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Remember that gambling outcomes are based on chance and the house always has an edge over time.
Problem gambling can develop gradually and you may not notice it at first. Warning signs include spending more money or time gambling than you intended, lying to others about your gambling activities, neglecting work family or other responsibilities, borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble, feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut down, and gambling to escape problems or negative feelings. If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
Self-exclusion is a tool that allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from gambling for a set period. In the UK you can use GamStop which is a free service that lets you exclude yourself from all online gambling sites licensed in Britain for six months one year or five years. You can register at www.gamstop.co.uk and once registered operators will block your access to their services. For land-based venues you can ask individual betting shops or casinos to exclude you from their premises. Self-exclusion can provide breathing space to regain control.
Many gambling sites offer tools to help you manage your activity including deposit limits time limits reality checks and self-exclusion options. Make use of these features to stay in control. If you need support the National Gambling Helpline is available 24 hours a day on 0808 8020 133 offering free confidential advice. Organizations like GamCare BeGambleAware and Gambling Therapy provide counseling information and support groups for people affected by problem gambling. You do not have to face this alone and reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK and operators must take steps to prevent underage gambling. Parents and guardians should talk to young people about the risks of gambling and monitor their online activities. Keep payment cards and account details secure so they cannot be accessed by minors. If you discover that a young person has been gambling report it to the operator and seek advice from organizations that specialize in supporting families affected by gambling harm.
If gambling is causing problems in your life do not wait to get help. Contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 for free confidential support. You can also visit websites like www.begambleaware.org www.gamcare.org.uk or www.gamblingtherapy.org for information counseling and treatment options. Your GP can also provide advice and refer you to specialist services. Many people recover from gambling problems with the right support so please reach out if you need assistance.
For more information about responsible gambling and where to find help please visit the following organizations. BeGambleAware offers a confidential online chat service treatment finder and educational resources at www.begambleaware.org. GamCare provides free support counseling and a forum for people affected by gambling problems at www.gamcare.org.uk. Gambling Therapy offers free online support in multiple languages at www.gamblingtherapy.org. Remember that help is always available and recovery is possible.
If you have concerns about the content on our website or would like to discuss responsible gambling practices please contact us at info@gaminghistoryuk.com. While we provide historical information about the gambling industry we take player safety seriously and encourage everyone to gamble responsibly and seek help if needed.