Responsible Gambling

Last Updated: March 2025

At top-rated-british-casinos.com, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling and helping users maintain control over their gaming behaviour. Gambling should remain a safe, recreational activity - not a source of financial or emotional distress.

1. Our Commitment to Responsible Gambling

We strive to ensure that our content promotes safe gaming practices. Our aim is to educate users, raise awareness of gambling-related risks, and provide support resources for those who may need help.

2. What Is Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling means making informed decisions about your gaming habits and staying in control of the time and money you spend. It involves:

  • Gambling for entertainment, not profit
  • Setting clear personal limits
  • Recognising the signs of problematic behaviour
  • Seeking help when necessary

3. Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Financial Indicators

  • Spending more than you can afford
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
  • Neglecting essential expenses

Behavioural Changes

  • Gambling more frequently or for longer than intended
  • Lying about gambling activity
  • Using gambling to escape stress or negative emotions

Social and Emotional Impact

  • Arguing with family and friends about gambling
  • Feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed after gambling
  • Ignoring work, school, or family responsibilities

4. Risk Factors

Some factors that may increase vulnerability to gambling problems include:

  • Age (younger individuals may be more susceptible)
  • Mental health issues (e.g. depression, anxiety)
  • Substance abuse history
  • Social isolation
  • Easy access to gambling platforms

5. Setting Limits

Financial Limits

  • Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit and loss limits
  • Only gamble with disposable income
  • Never chase losses or try to “win back” money

Time Limits

  • Limit the duration of gambling sessions
  • Take regular breaks
  • Avoid daily or routine gambling habits

Lifestyle Balance

  • Maintain hobbies and interests outside of gambling
  • Don’t allow gambling to interfere with work or relationships
  • Stay connected with non-gambling social circles

6. Self-Exclusion and Blocking Tools

GAMSTOP

GAMSTOP is a free national self-exclusion service that blocks access to all UK-licensed gambling operators for a selected period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years).
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk

Individual Casino Tools

Most licensed operators allow you to self-exclude or set timeouts directly through your account settings or by contacting customer support.

Blocking Software

You may also consider using third-party tools such as:

  • Gamban
  • BetBlocker
  • Cold Turkey
These can block access to gambling websites and apps on various devices.

7. Getting Help and Support

UK-Based Support Services

NHS Services

The NHS offers free treatment, including gambling clinics and therapy for those with gambling-related issues. Speak to your GP or visit www.nhs.uk for more information.

Family and Friends

GamAnon provides support groups for those affected by someone else’s gambling.
Website: www.gamanon.org.uk

8. Safe Gambling Practices

Before Gambling

  • Set a budget and time limit
  • Avoid gambling when stressed or intoxicated
  • Ensure essential bills and expenses are covered first

During Gambling

  • Stick to limits, take regular breaks
  • Don’t chase losses
  • Stop immediately if you feel out of control

After Gambling

  • Review your session honestly
  • Record wins and losses
  • Reassess your habits regularly

9. Understanding the Odds

Every casino game has a built-in house edge. Over time, the casino will always hold a statistical advantage. No strategy can eliminate this, and outcomes are random.

Common Misconceptions

  • “I’m due for a win” - each round is independent
  • “I can beat the system” - there’s no guaranteed strategy
  • “Chasing losses works” - it typically leads to more losses
  • “Gambling is lucky when drunk” - alcohol impairs judgment

10. Licensed and Secure Play

Always play on sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Look for their licence number and verify the site’s legitimacy on the UKGC website.
Protect your accounts with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and by logging out after each session. Review account statements regularly and report any suspicious activity.

11. Need Immediate Support?

If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact: