Safer Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstances. This page outlines warning signs, tools available to help you maintain control, and organisations that offer support if gambling becomes a concern.

Recognising Problem Gambling

Difficulty controlling how much you spend, playing more frequently than you intend, or continuing despite negative financial or personal consequences are common warning signs. If you find yourself thinking about gambling when you’re not playing, chasing losses, or hiding your gambling from family and friends, these may indicate that your relationship with gambling has become problematic. Other red flags include gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions, or experiencing mood changes when unable to play.

Tools to Stay in Control

Most betting platforms offer built-in protections designed to help you manage your activity. These typically include deposit limits—setting a maximum amount you can spend per day, week, or month—and loss limits that cap how much you can lose over a specified period. Many operators provide account self-exclusion features, allowing you to temporarily or permanently restrict your access. Time-out functions enable you to pause your account for a period you choose. You may also be able to set personal limits on stakes and winnings. If you think you’re losing control, using these tools proactively can help prevent harm before problems develop.

Getting Help

If gambling is causing you distress or financial difficulty, confidential support is available. Two major organisations in Great Britain specialise in gambling-related harm:

• GamCare: Provides 24-hour support via phone, live chat, and online resources. They also offer information about self-exclusion schemes and counselling services.
• Gamblers Anonymous: Offers peer support through meetings and telephone groups across the country, operating on a recovery programme model similar to other 12-step organisations.

The Gambling Commission, Britain’s gambling regulator, maintains a directory of local support services through GambleAware, where you can find counselling and advice services in your area. All these organisations are free and confidential.