Responsible gambling

Gambling should be an enjoyable form of entertainment. If your play ever feels less than that, it’s okay to pause and get support. This page explains the practical steps you can take to stay in control, the tools available to help you manage spending and time, and where to turn if gambling stops being fun.

Tools (Deposit Limits, Time-Outs, Self-Exclusion)

There are simple, effective tools designed to help you control how much time and money you spend. Use them early — they work best when set before you feel overwhelmed.

Deposit limits — Set daily, weekly or monthly caps so you can’t deposit more than you’re comfortable with. Common choices are small, fixed amounts you won’t miss. Lowering limits usually takes effect immediately; removing or increasing them may require a cooling-off period.
Loss limits and wagering limits — Cap the total amount you can lose or wager within a set period. These stop chase behaviors and help preserve your bankroll.
Session time limits and reality checks — Automatic reminders that pause play and show how long you’ve been playing and how much you’ve spent. Use them to schedule regular breaks.
Time-outs (temporary breaks) — Short, temporary suspensions (days to months) that let you step away without committing to a long-term block.
Self-exclusion (longer breaks) — If you need a longer break, self-exclusion can suspend your account for months or years. This is a stronger, more protective measure when short breaks aren’t enough.
Account restrictions via support — If you prefer, contact support to set or reinforce limits. Support can help with immediate lockouts or with explaining how limits function.

Practical tips when using tools:

Pick realistic limits based on your household budget and stick to them.
Use multiple tools together (e.g., deposit limit + session reminders) for stronger protection.
If you find yourself repeatedly raising limits, take a break and speak to someone you trust or a professional service.

Links to Support Organizations

If gambling is causing distress, support is available from a variety of sources. You don’t need to manage this alone — confidential help is offered by local helplines, counselling services and financial advisors.

Types of support to consider:

National helplines and problem-gambling services — Free, confidential advice and referral to local counsellors and treatment programmes.
Professional counselling — One-to-one or group therapy can help address underlying triggers and develop coping strategies.
Financial advice — Budgeting help and debt-management guidance to protect your finances and plan next steps.
Peer support groups — Shared experience with others can reduce isolation and provide practical tips for staying in control.

How to prepare when you reach out:

Keep simple notes about how often you play, typical losses, and recent worrying events.
Be honest about any credit or debts related to gambling — that helps advisers give practical help.
Ask about confidentiality and what support steps are recommended next.

If you are worried someone may harm themselves or another person, contact local emergency services immediately.

Additional RG Measures

Beyond account tools and professional help, there are practical steps you and loved ones can take to reduce harm and encourage healthier habits.

Use blocking and filtering tools — Software can block gambling sites across devices and help enforce a break.
Remove saved payment methods — Deleting card details and closing easy payment channels reduces impulsive deposits.
Ask a trusted person to help — Give someone else control of passwords or spending if you feel you need stronger protection.
Set non-gambling goals — Replace playtime with alternative activities you enjoy to reduce urges and rebuild routines.
Regularly review your activity — Look at session lengths and spending patterns weekly; small changes early have big impact.
Protection for families — Consider parental controls and device-level blocks to keep minors away from gambling content.

If you’re supporting someone else, approach them with empathy. Listen without judgement, offer practical help (like researching support options or helping to set account limits), and encourage professional advice where needed.

Remember: asking for help is a strong and positive step. Using limits, seeking advice, and creating practical barriers can restore balance and protect what matters most.