The vast majority of people who gamble do so safely and responsibly. Some people gamble as a form of entertainment. However, some people think of gambling as a way to make money, spend more than they can afford, or use gambling to distract themselves from everyday problems.
On this page you will find information about how you can stay safe when gambling.
The venue, bookie or app is using gambling to make money. It’s not designed to work the other way around. Over time you will give away more money than you receive. Think of gambling as an entertainment expense and only gamble with the money you can afford to lose.
It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re gambling. And gambling continuously can cause you to lose track of perspective. Odds are that the more time you spend gambling, the more money you will lose.
Make sure you only gamble when you feel level-headed. Decision-making can be more difficult when you’re stressed, depressed, anxious or angry. The same goes with big positive emotions – excitement can cloud your judgement because you feel optimistic and untouchable.
It’s important to remember that gambling can have a negative effect on your life. If you’re worried or concerned about your gambling, there are signs to look out for:
The NGTS works with, and alongside, the National Health Service, providing free telephone, online and face-to-face treatment for individuals and groups, across UK.
GamCare is the leading UK provider of free information, advice and support for anyone harmed by gambling. If gambling is affecting you, contact GamCare.
BeGambleAware offers free, confidential help and support to anyone who’s worried about their own or someone else’s gambling, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Once I started to open up to people, I was amazed with the amount of support I had. Previously, I was worried to tell people about my gambling issues because of their reactions.
I’m a lot happier and self excluding was the best thing I ever did. It has been four years of not gambling and I now call myself a proper business owner.
The self exclusion team had my back and they made me feel worthy again. MOSES helped keep me on track with my life and in control of my gambling.
You are not alone and help is available. Many people think their story is unique, but there are lots of people fighting similar battles. Open up to someone is the first step towards better control.
You don’t need to keep it a secret to yourself. I was shocked to find out about my partner’s gambling. Without the help of others, she could never have rebounded so quickly.
Gambling was meant to be a shortcut to retirement, but in reality, it was a roadblock for me. I woke up to the truth, seeked help and I quit.
All across the country, people are pausing, taking time to think and using some of the many safer gambling tools to make their experience better. Take time to join them.
The vast majority of people who gamble do so safely and responsibly. For those with concerns around the time and money they spend gambling, we can help you make a commitment to stay away from services and premises.
