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Responsible gambling

Last updated: 9 November 2026

Gambling should be a form of entertainment, never a way to make money or escape problems. If it stops being fun, stop. Free, confidential help is available around the clock.

Keep it under control

• Set a budget before you play and stick to it. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
• Set deposit limits in your account. Every UK-licensed casino must offer them.
• Decide how long you'll play and take regular breaks. Use reality checks and time-outs.
• Never chase losses or gamble to recover money.
• Avoid gambling when you're stressed, low, or have been drinking.
• Balance gambling with other activities you enjoy.

Signs it may be becoming a problem

• Spending more money or time than you intended.
• Borrowing money or selling things to gamble.
• Feeling anxious, irritable or guilty about gambling.
• Hiding your gambling from family or friends.
• Neglecting work, study or relationships because of gambling.

Tools that can help

• GAMSTOP — free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
• Bank gambling blocks — most UK banks let you block gambling transactions in their app.
• Blocking software such as Gamban or BetBlocker can stop access to gambling sites on your devices.
• In-account tools — deposit limits, loss limits, time-outs and self-exclusion with each operator.

Where to get support

• BeGambleAware.org — advice, self-assessment and links to free treatment.
• GamCare — support by phone, chat and in person.
• Gamblers Anonymous UK — peer support meetings across the country.
• Gambling with Lives — support for families affected by gambling-related suicide.

Under 18s

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK. All operators we list must verify your age and identity. If you share a device with children, consider parental control software such as Net Nanny or Qustodio.