Responsible Gaming

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While most people gamble safely, it is important to stay aware of the risks and recognise when play stops being fun. This page explains how to keep your gambling under control and where to find help if you need it.

Age Verification

In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. All licensed UK gambling operators are required by law to verify your age and identity before you can deposit, play, or withdraw. Never attempt to gamble if you are underage, and never allow anyone under 18 to use your account. If you share a device with minors, use parental controls and keep your login details secure.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone close to you, it may be time to seek support:

• Chasing losses – gambling more to try to win back money you have lost.
• Hiding gambling activity from family or friends, or lying about time and money spent.
• Gambling with money needed for bills, rent, food, or other essentials.
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions, or using credit to fund gambling.
• Neglecting work, studies, relationships, or personal health because of gambling.
• Thinking about gambling constantly or planning the next session while still playing.
• Feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed after gambling.

If you tick one or more of these boxes regularly, please take a break and consider using the tools or support services below.

Self-Help Tools

Most UK-licensed gambling sites, including those accepting paysafecard, offer practical tools to help you stay in control. You can usually set these in your account settings:

• Deposit limits – cap how much you can deposit per day, week, or month.
• Loss limits – set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a set period.
• Reality checks – timed pop-up reminders showing how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.
• Time-outs – take a short break from gambling for 24 hours, 7 days, or up to 6 weeks.
• Self-exclusion – block yourself from a specific site for 6 months to 5 years, or use GamStop for a broader exclusion across all UK-licensed sites.

Using these tools is a sign of strength, not weakness. They are designed to help you keep gambling as a safe leisure activity.

Support Organizations

If you feel your gambling is becoming difficult to control, confidential help is available. Contact the organisation relevant to your country of residence:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free, confidential advice and support. Phone: 0808 8020 133 (24/7). Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – Free self-exclusion scheme for all UK-licensed online gambling sites. Website: www.gamstop.co.uk

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support for anyone affected by gambling. Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7). Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Information, resources, and prevention programmes. Website: www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline and resources. Phone/Text: 1-800-GAMBLER. Website: www.ncpgambling.org

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Information and support for gambling addiction. Website: www.bzga.de (or their gambling-specific portal: www.spielen-mit-verantwortung.de)

For other countries not listed above, please search for your national gambling helpline or visit Gambling Therapy for international online support.

If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Now

Gambling problems can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or income. If you recognise any warning signs in yourself, or if gambling is causing stress, anxiety, or financial harm, please do not wait. Reach out to one of the organisations above – they are free, confidential, and non-judgemental. A short conversation can be the first step towards regaining control. Remember: support is available, and recovery is possible.