Casino games can be exciting, fast-moving and immersive, offering a wide range of options from slots and roulette to card games and live tables. However, this pace and intensity can also increase the risk of harm. Many casino games allow for continuous play and quick outcomes, which can make it easier to lose track of time and spending. It is important to understand these risks and take steps to stay in control, especially when playing online.
All licensed operators must offer safer gambling tools. You will be able to find these on operators’ websites and apps. Contact the operator directly if you want to enable the tools or to find out more.
Some of these safer gambling tools include:
Time-outs
Taking a time-out can be a helpful way to pause and regain perspective. If you are finding that gambling is becoming too frequent, or you simply need a break, you can choose to take a time-out for a period that suits you. During this time, you will not be able to access your account or place any bets, giving you the space to step away and reflect without pressure. Time-outs are easy to set up and can be a useful first step in managing your gambling more mindfully.
Deposit Limits
Deposit limits allow you to stay in control of how much money you are putting into your gambling account. You can set a daily, weekly or monthly limit that suits your personal circumstances. Once in place, you will not be able to deposit more than your chosen amount until the time period resets. This tool helps you plan your spending, avoid impulse deposits and ensures you are only gambling with money you can afford to lose. It is a simple and effective way to stick to your budget and maintain healthy gambling habits.
Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion is designed for people who feel that gambling is no longer fun or manageable. It is a more serious commitment that blocks access to your account for a longer period – starting from six months and extending up to five years or more. During this time, you will not receive marketing materials or be able to reverse the exclusion. It is a firm step, often taken by those who want to make a clear break and regain control. You can also sign up to GAMSTOP, a free service that allows you to exclude yourself from all UK-licensed gambling sites and apps with one registration. Self-exclusion is a strong and empowering decision that can help protect your wellbeing.
Are you a problem gambler?
Try this questionnaire:
- Do you bet more than you can afford to lose?
- Do you need to gamble with larger amounts of money to get the same feeling?
- Have you tried to win back money you have lost (chasing losses)?
- Have you borrowed money or sold anything to get money to gamble?
- Have you wondered whether you have a problem with gambling?
- Has your gambling caused you any health problems, including feelings of stress or anxiety?
- Have other people criticised your betting or told you that you have a gambling problem (regardless of whether or not you thought it was true)?
- Has your gambling caused any financial problems for you or your household?
- Have you ever felt guilty about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?
Score 0 for each time you answer “never”
Score 1 for each time you answer “sometimes”
Score 2 for each time you answer “most of the time”
Score 3 for each time you answer “almost always”