Playing Responsibly

Gambling can offer entertainment, but for some people it becomes a source of distress and financial difficulty. This page sets out what healthy gambling boundaries look like, what tools exist to help maintain them, and where to turn if gambling has started to cause harm.

Recognising When Gambling Becomes a Problem

Persistent difficulty controlling gambling expenditure or frequency is often a warning sign. People experiencing problem gambling commonly describe a preoccupation with gambling, a need to increase stakes to achieve the same excitement, restlessness when unable to gamble, using gambling to escape negative emotions, and continued gambling despite negative consequences. If you find yourself hiding your activity from family or friends, borrowing money to fund gambling, or neglecting work, study, or personal relationships because of time spent gambling, these are red flags that deserve attention.

The effects of problem gambling extend beyond finances. Many people report anxiety, depression, strain in relationships, and declining performance at work or school. If you recognise any of these patterns in yourself or someone close to you, seeking support early makes a significant difference.

Tools for Safer Gambling Habits

Operators in Great Britain are required to offer self-exclusion tools that allow you to voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing betting platforms for a set period. This breaks the habit loop and provides space for reflection. Many platforms also offer deposit limits, spend limits, and time-out features that help you stick to a budget. Reality check reminders prompt you to reflect on your activity, and loss limit tools prevent you from recovering losses through further betting.

Before you begin gambling on any platform, set clear personal limits on how much you are willing to spend and how often you will gamble. Treat this amount as money you can afford to lose entirely. Separate your gambling funds from money needed for essential expenses. Avoid using credit to gamble, and never borrow to cover losses.

Getting Help

Support is available whatever your circumstances. The National Gambling Helpline, run by GamCare, offers free confidential advice and counselling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can reach them by calling 0808 8020 133, through live chat, or via WhatsApp. They will listen without judgement and help you understand your options.

Beyond the helpline, the National Gambling Support Network connects you with treatment services across England, Scotland and Wales, from online therapy to face-to-face counselling. Gamblers Anonymous runs mutual-support groups using a twelve-step recovery model if you prefer peer support. The NHS also offers gambling addiction support through mental health services. If problem gambling is linked to alcohol or substance use, integrated treatment addresses both together.

Friends and family affected by someone else’s gambling can also access support. Many organisations provide guidance for those trying to help a loved one.

This page is reviewed periodically to reflect current support resources and best practices in harm prevention. Information about operator licensing can be found on the official operator website and verified in the regulator’s public registry.

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Sources:

  • GamCare – National Gambling Helpline
  • National Gambling Support Network
  • Gambling Commission
  • NHS Gambling Addiction Support