Gambling should remain entertainment
Casino games involve chance and cannot provide reliable income. Only gamble with money that is genuinely affordable to lose, decide on a limit before starting and never borrow money or use essential household funds to continue playing.
Simple habits that protect control
- Set firm spending and time limits before a session.
- Take regular breaks and avoid playing when upset, tired or under the influence.
- Do not chase a loss or increase stakes to recover money.
- Keep gambling separate from rent, bills, savings and credit.
- Review account history and total spending, not only individual wins.
Warning signs
Pay attention if gambling begins to occupy more time or money than planned, if losses are hidden, if responsibilities are missed, if borrowing increases, or if stopping causes anxiety or irritability. Any one of these signs is a good reason to pause and seek support.
Account controls
Where available, deposit, loss, wager and session limits can set clear boundaries. Reality checks display time spent playing. A time-out supports a shorter break, while self-exclusion blocks access for a longer chosen period. Limits should be set while calm and before gambling begins.
Self-exclusion and device blocking
If a break is needed, use the self-exclusion option associated with the gambling account and avoid opening replacement accounts. Device-level blocking software and bank gambling-payment controls can add another layer of protection.
Support in Great Britain
Independent confidential help is available through recognised gambling-support organisations and the NHS. GamCare can be reached on the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133. GAMSTOP provides free multi-operator online self-exclusion for people in Great Britain. In an immediate mental-health crisis, contact emergency services.
Protecting young people
Gambling is for adults aged 18 or over. Keep account credentials and payment methods private, sign out on shared devices, use parental controls where appropriate and do not allow a child to access gambling content through an adult account.
Friends and family
If someone else’s gambling is causing concern, choose a calm moment, focus on observable behaviour and encourage professional support. Protect shared finances and seek independent advice rather than attempting to recover losses together.