Safer Gambling
If it's no longer just a game, it's time to call it quits.
As we advertise the services of gambling providers on this website, we feel it is important to also inform our customers about the potential risks associated with gambling. Additionally, we want to provide information on where individuals can seek advice and support if they experience any issues related to gambling. Our aim is to promote responsible gambling practices and ensure that our customers are well-informed and have access to resources and support when needed.
Keep these three things in mind:
• Have fun with the game.
It's important to remember that gambling should not be seen as a way of life, but rather as a source of entertainment and enjoyment. If enjoyed in moderation, gambling can be a fun and exciting pastime. However, it's also essential to be aware of the potential risks involved and to gamble responsibly. By staying informed and setting reasonable limits, you can ensure that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable activity.
• Play responsibly
To ensure responsible gambling practices, it's important to set limits on both playtime and spending. By setting reasonable limits, you can enjoy the game without risking excessive time or money. Keep in mind that such limits should be tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. By taking control of your gambling habits and setting limits, you can promote responsible gambling and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Know when to call it a day.
It's crucial to recognize when it's time to stop and know your limits when it comes to gambling. Winners understand that it's important to set reasonable boundaries and stick to them, even when on a winning streak. By being mindful of these limits, you can foster responsible gambling practices and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember, knowing when enough is enough is an important part of playing the game responsibly.
Safer gambling: What is it?
While gambling can be a popular and entertaining activity for many, it is important to remember that it can also be harmful. For some individuals, gambling can pose risks not just to their own well-being, but also to their loved ones and communities.
To help protect gamblers and prevent these negative outcomes, the UK government has implemented the Safer Gambling legislation. This measure is enforced by regulators and mandates that gambling providers, both online and in person, take a range of actions and policies to promote responsible gambling practices and minimize harm. By prioritizing safety and well-being, the Safer Gambling legislation is working to ensure a more positive and enjoyable experience for all gamblers.
Among these policies and measures are:
• To avoid having minors gamble, all gamblers must present identification proving they are at least 18 years old.
• When advertising gambling, companies should not specifically target minors and should always highlight the risks involved.
• Safe betting transactions require the use of reputable payment processors like PayPal, VISA, Skrill, and other industry leaders.
• The EU's GDPR law governs the safe handling of sensitive information, ensuring the privacy of gamblers' data. This includes an address verification, a photo ID, and banking information.
• Protecting gamblers who are likely to become addicted, like those with mental health problems like depression and anxiety.
Players can use the following tools:
• Self-exclusion: You request to be blocked from the gambling provider's website.
• Limiting access: You set a time limit for gambling.
• Activity alerts: You receive an alert after a period of gambling.
• Deposit limits: The gambling provider places a cap on the amount that can be deposited.
• Gambling blocks: A gambling block is placed on your debit card.
• Time-outs: You set a time limit on how long you will be able to access gambling sites.
10 best practices for gambling safety
The UK Gambling Commission provides guidance on how to stay safe when gambling:
1. Set a budget in advance.
2. Set a time limit ahead of time.
3. Play for pleasure, not to earn money.
4. Never go after lost gains.
5. To avoid "Bet Regret," it's important to take breaks.
6. Realize that knowing more doesn't mean you'll win every time.
7. Bet only what you can afford to lose.
8. Check the local laws to see which games are permitted.
9. Avoid drinking or taking drugs when you're gambling.
10. Don't gamble when you're feeling down.
How much gambling is too much?
Knowing the telltale signs of gambling addiction can help you or a loved one get help if you're worried about a problem. Below are a few examples of common warning signs to look out for:
• Ignoring the warning signs and insisting you're fine. The first step toward recovery is admitting you have a problem.
• You can't stop thinking about gambling, and you lose interest in things that you used to enjoy.
• When you can't gamble, you might feel angry or restless because you have cravings or withdrawal symptoms.
• Loss of control and inability to manage impulsive thoughts to gamble despite a decision to stop. This includes using rent or grocery money to gamble.
• To get the same thrill or level of excitement, you have to spend more and more money, even if it's more than you can afford to lose.
• Believing that "just one more bet" will enable you to recoup your losses and possibly win more.
• There are problems at work because you don't show up anymore, can't focus and get things done on time, or gamble during work hours.
• Failure to fulfil obligations, such as skipping family events and neglecting children, partners, or friends.
• Borrowing or stealing money, or selling property in order to gamble.
By identifying and addressing these signs early on, individuals can work to prevent the development of gambling addiction and foster a safer and more responsible experience overall. Remember, recognizing warning signs is an important step in promoting healthy and sustainable gambling habits.
FAQs
Why do people get hooked on gambling?
There is no one specific cause of gambling addiction, as it can be influenced by a range of factors. Some individuals may be more vulnerable to addiction due to genetic or biological factors, while others may develop issues with gambling due to financial or emotional stressors, or as a way of coping with trauma or mental health issues. Additionally, the stimulation of the reward pathway in the brain when gambling can reinforce addictive behaviors. Studies have also shown that some people may be more susceptible to both drug addiction and compulsive gambling due to a shared reward system in the brain. Overall, gambling addiction is a complex issue with a range of contributing factors. It is important to be aware of the risks and warning signs of addiction, and to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues.
What factors influence gambling addiction?
A range of factors can contribute to the development of gambling addiction. These can include a desire for the thrill of winning, financial pressures or desperation, the social status or perceived success associated with gambling, and the stimulating and entertaining environment provided by local gaming venues. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and warning signs of addiction and to seek assistance if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues. By taking steps to promote responsible gambling practices and seeking the support of professionals, individuals can improve their chances of managing and overcoming gambling addiction.
What is pathological gambling?
Compulsive gambling, also called gambling disorder, is a type of behavioral addiction classified as an impulse-control disorder. People with this condition experience an uncontrollable urge to gamble, even when it leads to negative consequences such as financial loss or personal difficulties. Like other types of addiction, compulsive gambling may be caused by a range of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. For individuals struggling with this condition, seeking professional treatment and support can be an important step in promoting recovery and managing the impact of gambling addiction on their lives.
Can you have fun with gambling without becoming addicted?
For many people, gambling can be a form of entertainment that they can enjoy without becoming a problem gamblers. These individuals are able to recognize that the odds are against them and only gamble what they can afford to lose. In contrast, problem gamblers are unable to control their urge to gamble and will continue to bet regardless of their losses. Seeking professional help and support can be an important step in addressing and managing gambling addiction, and promoting responsible gambling practices can help prevent the development of problematic gambling behaviors.
What age must a person be to gamble in the UK?
The legal gambling age in the United Kingdom is 18 years old. This applies to all types of gambling activities, including in-person gambling at casinos or betting shops, as well as online gambling. The regulations are overseen by the UK Gambling Commission, under the authority of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. It is worth noting that while the UK has a minimum gambling age of 18, other countries may have different age limits, and it is important to abide by the laws and regulations of the country in which you are located.
Need help?
Although most gamblers will never experience problem gambling, for some individuals, gambling can become more than just entertainment and start to cause harm.
If you or someone you know needs help, there are various resources available. One option is to contact the specific gambling provider to express your concerns. Accredited betting companies have policies in place to respond to such concerns.
Another option is self-exclusion, which involves putting measures in place to prevent visiting casinos, bookmakers, gambling websites, and apps. Website blockers and banking restrictions can also be implemented to help prevent problematic gambling behaviors.
Additionally, the National Gambling Treatment Service offers a network of organizations that provide confidential advice and support 24/7 to those experiencing gambling-related issues or those affected by someone else's gambling. It can be challenging to make a change, but it's essential to seek help when it's needed.
Don't hesitate to ask for help!
