The Playhouse Edit
Safer Gambling

Gambling responsibly

Gambling is a form of paid entertainment for adults. It is not a reliable way to make money, and it is not a solution to financial difficulty. For most people, keeping stakes within a budget they've set in advance is the difference between an occasional pastime and something that causes harm. This page exists to make sure that if you or someone you know needs support, the right organisations are easy to find.

Signs gambling may be a problem

  • Gambling with money set aside for bills, rent, or essentials
  • Chasing losses — continuing to play to try to recover what you’ve lost
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
  • Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
  • Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when not gambling
  • Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or low mood

If any of the above sounds familiar, speaking to GamCare or a GP is a reasonable and non-judgmental first step. Gambling disorder is a recognised condition, and effective treatment exists.

Tools available on every UKGC-licensed site

All operators on this page are required by UKGC rules to offer the following account tools. Access them via the responsible gambling or account settings section:

  • Deposit limits — daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can add to your account. Reductions take effect immediately; increases require a 24-hour delay.
  • Session time limits — a reminder or automatic logout after a set playing period.
  • Loss limits — caps on how much you can lose within a period.
  • Cooling-off periods — temporary account restrictions without full exclusion.
  • Self-exclusion — close your account for a minimum period. For a national exclusion covering all UKGC-licensed sites, use GAMSTOP.

Free support organisations

GAMSTOP — Self-Exclusion

GAMSTOP — Self-Exclusion

Register at gamstop.co.uk to exclude yourself from all UKGC-licensed gambling sites for a minimum of six months. Free, immediate, and covers every site on this page.

GamCare

GamCare

Free counselling, support groups, and a 24/7 helpline (0808 8020 133). GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline and is the leading UK provider of gambling support services.

GambleAware

GambleAware

Independent charity funding treatment, research, and public education on gambling harms. Their website includes a self-assessment tool and treatment finder.

UK Gambling Commission

UK Gambling Commission

The statutory regulator for all commercial gambling in Great Britain. You can verify a casino licence, report an unlicensed operator, and find information on your rights as a player.