responsible gambling

How to Gamble Responsible
with these Top Tips!

Safer Gambling: Tips on How you can Gamble Responsibly

Playing your favourite slots and table games at online casinos can be great fun, but it's important to stay safe while gambling. Addictive behaviour can affect anyone, sneaking into your life without you realising. Here are some friendly tips to help you gamble responsibly.

View Gambling as Entertainment

Think of gambling as a fun activity, like buying concert tickets. Never gamble to make money. Casinos always have a house edge, meaning you will lose more than you win over time. The odds of a huge payout are extremely low, like thirty-four million to one.

Enjoy the thrill and excitement of the games, but always keep in mind that it's just a form of entertainment. Just like you wouldn't expect to make money from a night out at the movies, don't expect to profit from gambling. This mindset helps you stay in control and ensures that you don't develop unrealistic expectations.

Manage Your Money

Everyone has expenses like rent and bills. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Set a budget before you start and stick to it. Never chase losses by continuing to play after you've hit your limit.

Limit Your Time

Set a time limit for your gambling sessions and take regular breaks. Gambling should be just one part of your life, balanced with other hobbies and activities. If gambling starts to take over, it might be a sign of a problem.

Stay Clear-Headed

Enjoy casino and bingo games when you can appreciate them fully. Avoid gambling when you're stressed or under the influence of alcohol, as this can affect your judgement. Clear thinking helps prevent problem gambling.

Player Protection Tools

Many licensed online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control. These tools can set daily or weekly money limits and remind you to take breaks. Look for casinos with responsible gambling procedures.

  • Deposit Limits: Set how much you can deposit over a period.
  • Reality Checks: Alerts to remind you of your limits.
  • Cooling Off Periods: Take a short break to reassess your gambling.
  • Self-Exclusion: Temporarily lock yourself out of the casino if you feel your gambling is becoming a problem.

Self-Assessment Test

Identify problem gambling early with self-assessment tests available on some sites. These quick tests ask questions about your gambling habits and feelings. The results can help you understand your behaviour better.

Protecting Minors

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) reports that 1.7% of children under sixteen are problem gamblers. To protect minors:

  • Never gamble when children are present.
  • Avoid autosave for login details.
  • Keep payment details secure.
  • Use parental controls to block gambling sites.

Protecting Your Account

Safeguard your account by keeping your login details private. Log out when you leave your device. If you suspect someone is using your account, report it to customer support immediately.

Further Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, several organisations offer confidential support:

  • GambleAware - Free help available 24/7 in England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • GamStop - Helps you take a break from gambling by blocking access to UK-licensed sites.
  • GamCare - Offers confidential help and support 24/7.
  • Gamblers Anonymous - Provides friendship and support through chat rooms and forums.
  • Payplan - Offers advice on managing gambling debts.

Remember, gambling should always be a fun and safe activity. Stay informed, set limits, and seek help if you need it. Enjoy responsibly!