Engaging with gambling activities should always be approached with awareness. Recognising potential indicators of harm is an important step. These might include spending more time or money than intended, feeling compelled to gamble to recover previous losses, or experiencing negative impacts on personal relationships, work, or finances due to gambling. If gambling ceases to be an enjoyable pastime and begins to cause distress, it may be time to reassess your habits.
To maintain control, consider establishing personal boundaries before you begin. Many platforms allow you to set financial deposit limits, restricting how much money you can add to your account over a specific period. Time limits can also be beneficial, helping to manage the duration of your play. Regular breaks are advisable to maintain perspective. It is also important to understand that gambling outcomes are random; attempting to recoup losses by continuing to play often leads to further financial strain.
Seeking Support
Should you or someone you know require support, various organisations offer assistance:
- The National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare, provides confidential advice and support. You can reach them on 0808 8020 133 or visit their website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/.
National Self-Exclusion
For those seeking to restrict their access to online gambling platforms, national self-exclusion schemes are available:
- GAMSTOP is a free service that lets you put controls in place to restrict your online gambling activities across all UK-licensed operators. Once registered, you will be prevented from using gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain.
- The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the regulatory body for gambling in Great Britain. They license and regulate commercial gambling, ensuring it is conducted fairly and openly, and that children and vulnerable people are protected. While not a direct support service, the UKGC oversees the framework within which responsible gambling tools and services operate.