Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Digital Inclusion Wales, we believe gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or theatre. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember: the odds are always in favour of the operator. Only gamble with money you can genuinely afford to lose.
Age Verification
All gambling in the United Kingdom is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling activity.
We are committed to preventing underage gambling. Any operator we recommend should verify your age and identity before allowing you to place bets. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Review the following checklist to assess your gambling habits:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about the time or money spent gambling
- Loss of control: Gambling more than you intended or for longer than planned
- Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling instead of paying bills, attending work, or caring for family
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit cards to fund gambling
- Relationship conflicts: Arguments with family or friends about your gambling
- Mood swings: Feeling anxious, irritable, or low when unable to gamble
- Unsuccessful quit attempts: Repeated failed efforts to cut down or stop gambling
- Physical symptoms: Sleep disturbances, headaches, or stress-related health issues
If you recognize any of these signs in your own behaviour, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable gambling operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications showing how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out (Self-Suspension): Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or semi-permanently close your account if you feel you cannot control your gambling
- Account Closure: Request permanent deletion of your betting account
Always use these tools proactively if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Below are trusted organizations offering free, confidential support:
United Kingdom
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GamCare – Free support and counselling for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) -
GamStop – The UK's national self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Register to self-exclude from all licensed UK gambling operators -
Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings across the UK
Helpline: 0330 094 0322 -
National Gambling Treatment Service – NHS-funded specialist treatment
www.begambleaware.org
International Support
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Australia: Gambling Help Online
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au -
Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org -
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
National Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 -
Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
www.gluecksspielsucht.de
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it's a sign of strength and self-awareness. Whether you're experiencing mild concerns or serious difficulties, support is available 24/7 and completely confidential.
Don't wait. Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (UK) or visit one of the organizations above today.
Your wellbeing matters. We're here to help you enjoy gambling responsibly—or to help you stop if it's causing harm.