Responsible Gambling: Tools, Warning Signs and Support

Warning signs to take seriously

• Spending more money or time than you planned, or than you can afford.
• Chasing losses by betting again to win back what you lost.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or missing bills to gamble.
• Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you are not gambling.
• Hiding gambling from partners, family or friends.

Recognising one or two of these is a good reason to pause and use the tools below.

Tools you can use today

Every UK-licensed operator must offer deposit limits, time-outs, reality checks and self-exclusion. GamStop lets you exclude yourself from all UK-licensed online gambling for six months, one year or five years in a single free registration. Many banks can block gambling payments from your card, and Gamban blocks gambling sites and apps on your devices.

Habits that keep betting affordable

Decide a monthly amount you are comfortable losing in full before you bet, and set it as a deposit limit on every account you hold. Keep that money separate from rent, bills and savings. Avoid betting when you are stressed, tired or drinking, and never treat gambling as a way to make money or solve a financial problem. Checking your net deposits in your account history once a month gives you an honest picture that memory often does not.

Under-18s cannot legally gamble online in the UK, and licensed operators must verify age before any deposit. If you share devices with children, use parental controls and keep betting apps behind a lock.

Free, confidential support

If you are worried about someone else

Gambling harm affects families and friends too. GamCare and Gamblers Anonymous both support affected others, and you can call the National Gambling Helpline about someone else's gambling. Read more about how licensed operators must protect customers in our guide to UK betting sites.