Gambling should be entertainment, not a source of stress or financial difficulty. Learn how to gamble responsibly and recognise when gambling may be becoming a problem.
Responsible gambling means gambling for entertainment while staying in control of how much time and money you spend. It involves making informed decisions, understanding the risks, and knowing when to stop.
Treat gambling as a form of entertainment, like going to the cinema. Budget for it as you would any other leisure activity, and accept that the cost of entertainment is money you may lose.
Never gamble with money you need for bills, rent, food or other essentials. Set a budget before you start and stick to it, regardless of whether you are winning or losing.
Decide in advance how much time and money you will spend. Use the gambling management tools provided by operators to enforce your limits.
Accept that losing is part of gambling. Trying to win back money you have lost often leads to bigger losses. When you reach your limit, stop.
These warning signs may indicate that gambling is becoming a problem
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.
Decide how much you can afford to spend before you start gambling. This should be money you can afford to lose completely without affecting your finances.
Decide in advance how long you will gamble. Set an alarm or use session time limits to remind you when to stop. Taking regular breaks helps you stay in control.
Take advantage of deposit limits, loss limits, reality checks and time-out features. Set these up before you start gambling when you are thinking clearly.
Accept that losing is part of gambling. When you reach your budget limit, stop. Trying to win back losses almost always makes things worse.
Avoid gambling when you are stressed, upset, depressed or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These states impair judgement and decision-making.
Ensure gambling does not become your only leisure activity. Maintain other hobbies, interests and social activities. If gambling is crowding out other things, cut back.
All gambling activities are designed so that the operator makes a profit over time. This is called the "house edge". Understanding this helps you make informed decisions.
The mathematical advantage the operator has over players. This ensures operators profit over time. The house edge varies by game - for example, blackjack typically has a lower house edge than slot machines.
The percentage of wagered money a game returns to players over time. An RTP of 96% means the game keeps 4% (the house edge). RTP is calculated over millions of plays - individual sessions can vary widely.
Each spin, hand or bet is independent. Previous outcomes do not influence future results. A slot machine that has not paid out is not "due" for a win. Each spin has the same odds.
How often and how much a game pays out. High volatility games pay less frequently but with larger amounts. Low volatility games pay smaller amounts more often. This affects short-term results, not the overall house edge.
Free, confidential help is available for anyone affected by gambling
GamCare
Free, confidential advice and support available 24/7. Advisors can discuss your situation, provide information and refer you to local support services.
0808 8020 133
Visit GamCareGambleAware
Online advice, information and access to free treatment. Use the self-assessment tool to understand your gambling behaviour.
begambleaware.org
Visit BeGambleAwareGA UK
A fellowship of men and women who share experience to help each other recover from gambling. Meetings are held across the UK and online.
gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Visit GANational Self-Exclusion
Free self-exclusion from all UKGC licensed online gambling sites. Choose 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
gamstop.co.uk
Visit GAMSTOPNHS England
Free specialist NHS treatment for gambling addiction. Clinics in London and Leeds with more opening across England.
nhs.uk
Learn MoreFamily Support
Support for family members and friends of people with gambling problems. Local meetings and online support available.
gamanon.org.uk
Visit GamAnonAnswering yes to any of these questions may indicate that gambling is affecting your life negatively:
If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider seeking support. The National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) can provide free, confidential advice.