Responsible gambling: it's about more than money

Keeping you safe - Casino.org’s commitment

Gambling can be a fun and secure form of entertainment when done within your means. At Casino.org, our priority is your safety, with several measures implemented in our 25-step casino review process to protect you from unsafe sites and risky betting behaviours.

We want you to be informed and continuously in control; our platform provides a variety of guides for different game types, giving you the knowledge to make wise choices and maintain safe gambling practices.

Despite this, we recognise that addiction and problem gambling remain a real risk, potentially leading to serious consequences. Keep reading to discover the various support options available. And remember, it's okay to reach out for help!

The role of the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)

As the regulatory body overseeing all forms of gambling in the UK, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) sets strict standards and limitations to ensure that operators provide fair, transparent, and safe consumer environments. Among the implemented laws for online casinos are:

• Clear presentation of terms and conditions for casino bonuses to ensure gamers understand their obligations.
• Mandatory implementation of responsible gambling tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion schemes, and session reminders.
• Strict procedures to verify the age and identity of players (KYC) to prevent underage gambling and ensure player safety.
• Prohibitions on the use of under-25s* (18-24 years old), cartoon or child-themed imagery in advertisements to protect young and vulnerable individuals from gambling exposure.
• Obligation for operators to contribute to research, prevention, and treatment of problem gambling.
• Rigorous policies to prevent money laundering and ensure the integrity of financial transactions.

*The only exception is when marketing materials are featured on the gambling operator's sites or premises; elsewhere, including social media, they are not allowed.

The UKGC actively works to prevent gambling-related harm through rigorous licensing conditions, including mandatory self-exclusion schemes like GAMSTOP, and the implementation of policies that require online casinos to monitor and intervene in cases of excessive gambling.

What is responsible gambling?

Responsible gambling is the practice of playing casino games in a way that maintains control, sets limits on time and money spent, and keeps the activity enjoyable without leading to financial or emotional distress.

For the best experience, it's essential that you are informed and fully understand the risks, recognise the early signs of problematic behaviour, and use tools and resources to stay safe while engaging in gambling activities.

If at any point you see yourself showing signs of compulsive betting or financial distress, you're likely facing a gambling addiction and should seek help immediately!

7 tips for responsible gambling in the UK

Whether you enjoy gaming online, via your mobile device, in a casino, at a bingo hall, or in any other environment, consider the following responsible gambling tips to keep your play in check.

1. 1
   Set a budget before you start gambling, and stick to it. The aim is to play only what you can afford to lose without affecting your daily life.
2. 2
   Accept losses as part of the game and resist the urge to keep playing to win back what you've lost. Chasing losses is a key sign of problem gambling.
3. 3
   Take breaks regularly to clear your mind and reassess decisions. Find ways to track the time spent gambling. Don't let it consume your day; setting alarms or reminders can help manage and limit individual sessions.
4. 4
   Understand the games you choose to play to get the best results. This includes not only knowing the rules but also the odds and the return-to-player (RTP) percentage of the game.
5. 5
   Monitor your emotional state; avoid gambling when feeling depressed, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol, as this can impair judgment and lead to regrettable decisions.
6. 6
   Balance gambling with other activities to ensure it doesn't become your sole source of entertainment. Engage in hobbies and spend time with family and friends outside the gaming circle.
7. 7
   Seek support if you find it challenging to adhere to your set limits or if gambling is causing you stress, anxiety, or financial hardship. Many organisations offer confidential and free help.

Struggling with any of the above? It could be a sign of gambling addiction. Consider taking GamCare’s free self-assessment test to evaluate your behaviours and the risk of developing a problem.

What is gambling addiction?

Very simply, gambling addiction is the inability to control the urge to gamble and so gamble in irresponsible ways.

Those who are gambling addicts gamble with money they can't afford to lose and then will chase losses. They will also gamble for long period periods which will have a detrimental effect on their social or professional lives. Further implications of gambling addiction are deteriorations in both mental and physical health.

In a nutshell, gambling addiction is the opposite of responsible gambling.

What are the causes of gambling addiction?

Gambling addiction is a mental disorder that can be triggered by many factors.

Some have a genetic predisposition to compulsive behaviour which manifests in gambling addiction. While, for others, personal or professional aspects of their life may lead them to look to gambling for an escape. Gambling addiction may also be a by-product of other addictions like drugs or alcohol.

Gambling addiction has many can stem from a number of places and, as a result, it is important to understand that anyone can be affected by it.

However, understanding responsible gambling can be the way to prevent it from happening to you or a loved one.

9 signs of problem gambling in yourself and loved ones

Addiction doesn't discriminate and can sneak up on anyone, especially those not gambling with caution. If you're concerned about yourself, a friend, or a family member potentially facing issues, keep an eye out for the below signs and symptoms:

1. 1
   A continuous preoccupation with gambling; gestures like frequently talking about gambling wins (but rarely mentioning losses), spending too much time thinking about it, planning the day around it, or making excuses to go play at a casino or online.
2. 2
   Increasing the amount gambled to achieve the desired level of excitement. This indicates tolerance, where more of the activity is needed for the same 'high'.
3. 3
   The inability to stop or control gambling despite the desire to do so.
4. 4
   Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like restlessness or irritability when not betting, which suggests a psychological dependency on gambling.
5. 5
   When gambling becomes a way to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, or depression — all cues that it has moved beyond a recreational activity.
6. 6
   Placing wagers to chase losses. It's always a negative sign when someone is attempting to recover money lost in previous games or sessions.
7. 7
   Lying about gambling activities often indicates that someone is struggling to control their habits, and they feel the need to hide the extent of their involvement.
8. 8
   Jeopardising or losing significant relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities in favour of gambling.
9. 9
   Borrowing money to gamble, be it from family, friends, or taking out loans, suggests financial resources are being stretched thin due to the cause.

What to do if you think someone has a problem with gambling

If you suspect someone is developing a gambling problem, it's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and support.

Start by gently expressing your concerns without making them feel judged or defensive. Share specific observations and express your feelings using "I" statements, such as "I've noticed you seem stressed after gambling", to keep the conversation open and non-confrontational.

Encourage them to talk about their feelings and experiences, listening actively and empathetically. It's crucial not to enable their behaviour by lending money or covering debts, as this can prolong the issue.

If you see these signs in yourself, take immediate action! Here are various resources you might consider, depending on what feels most suitable for your situation:

• Gambling addiction treatment programs: Offer comprehensive support and treatment to help you navigate and overcome your addiction.
• Gambling hotlines: Provide immediate information and support for problem gambling, accessible anytime you need someone to talk to.
• Gambling counselling services: Assist in understanding your gambling behaviour and in developing effective strategies to manage and change it.
• Gambling support groups: Offer the chance to connect with others facing similar challenges. Great for mutual understanding and support!

What support is there at online casinos for responsible gambling?

All UK online casinos must adhere to the UKGC regulations concerning player safeguarding and adhere to the best practices with responsible gambling. Failure to do so will result in penalties and potentially losing their UK licensing. Hence all UK casinos we offer on our site will have perserved to have done this.

As part of their endeavours to provide a safe and responsible gambling experience, there are a range of tools that be utilised to prevent, help identify or, if needs be, solve any problem gaming issues that do appear in their players.

Responsible gambling tools

Getting professional help with gambling addiction in the UK

Blocking tools and self-exclusion mechanisms play a crucial role in managing and combating gambling addiction. Equally important is the pursuit of professional assistance from specialists equipped to recognise signs of problematic gambling and recommend personalised treatment strategies.

We at Casino.org have collaborated with addiction experts Aaron Sternlicht, LMHC, CASAC, and Lin Anderson, LMHC, M.A., Ed.M., to develop a comprehensive handbook for gambling addiction. Our objective is to assist you in taking the first step toward finding help; although it doesn't substitute for direct conversations with a professional, it's designed to get you there.

Numerous countries with regulated gambling markets provide extensive support systems for people seeking tailored advice and wanting to discuss their issues face-to-face. The UK stands out among the lot, offering numerous counselling services and helplines accessible at national and local levels.

Below, we've assembled a selection of valuable resources to aid in your search for the necessary support:

Further Support

If you frequent additional forms of gambling environments and seek ways to manage your access, there are several other organisations and schemes that can offer support:

• MOSES

  The Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme enables self-exclusion from multiple bookmakers in your area through a single call to their helpline (freephone: 0800 294 2060).
• The Bingo Association's BISES

  The Bingo Industry Self-Exclusion Scheme provides a route to self-exclude from all licensed bingo premises across the UK. One can register either in person at a bingo venue or by telephone.
• BACTA

  Focuses on those wishing to exclude from adult gaming centres, high street arcades, motorway service areas, and family entertainment centres with age-controlled sections. Call their support line on 020 3930 9769 (Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm).
• SmartEXCLUSION

  Aimed at individuals wanting to self-exclude from high street bingo, adult gaming centres, or both, facilitating this through in-person visits to premises or via a support line (0844 884 3433.)

Finding financial support for responsible gambling in the UK

The UK offers a strong network of organisations designed to provide support and guidance for those grappling with financial difficulties due to gambling.

Protecting children from gambling in the UK

Although gambling by anyone under 18 is prohibited in the UK, it's crucial to educate children on the subject and methods of staying safe should they choose to engage in it legally in the future. If you're uncertain about where to begin or how to safeguard them, we've outlined several actionable steps you can follow:

• Discuss the topic with your kids. Describe what gambling entails and highlight that while it can be enjoyable, it also carries potential risks and serious implications. Explain the dangers, including financial loss, the possibility of accruing debt, and, above all, the risk of developing an addiction.
• Keep an eye on your children’s online activities. Pay attention to the sites they browse and the games they play, especially since many nowadays indirectly incorporate gambling-like features. Understanding these elements is crucial to discuss the potential risks and impacts with your kids effectively.
• Discuss the risks associated with loot boxes in video games. Loot boxes are digital in-game purchases that offer players random rewards and have similarities to gambling. Given their unpredictable nature and how they could encourage betting behaviours, you can better prepare your children to make informed decisions before they decide to buy them.
• Lead by example. If you engage in gambling, do it responsibly: never bet more than you can afford to lose and make sure that it doesn't disrupt your work, academy, or personal relationships. Always put your child's needs ahead of any gaming activities. Regularly assess your habits and discuss them openly with your family to foster a responsible attitude.
• Educate your children on financial responsibility by helping them grasp the value of money and the importance of making smart financial choices. This foundation could steer them away from debt and equip them with long-term wisdom to make more informed decisions about potentially risky activities.
• Implement blocking tools to protect your child's online safety. Despite regulatory measures and age restrictions in most markets, unsafe and unregulated gambling sites still continue to operate. Tools like NetNanny, where available, can prevent access to potentially harmful sites, thereby protecting children from problem gambling.
• Offer support. If you suspect that your child might be at risk of, or is already dealing with, a gambling issue, provide your help and encouragement. There are numerous resources out there to aid children and families confronting gambling problems, and these can be tremendously beneficial in addressing the situation.

Several organisations in the UK are dedicated to protecting children from the dangers of gambling, focusing on education, support, and awareness.

For instance, YGAM (Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust) creates educational programs that teach young people and their educators about the risks of gambling in order to foster smarter choices.

Alongside, GamCare offers support specifically designed for young individuals, and the NSPCC works to keep youngsters safe from gambling-related harm while pushing for strong safety measures both online and offline.