Safer Gambling Week Nov 24 is a collaborative effort across the gambling industry in the United Kingdom and Ireland, aimed at promoting responsible gambling practices. This initiative encourages everyone to think critically about their gambling habits, openly discuss their experiences, and utilize resources that help keep gambling safer and more controlled.
Practicing Safer Gambling: Set Your Limits
Setting limits is a proactive way to keep gambling enjoyable and manageable. Decide in advance how long you want to play and how much you want to spend, and stick to these limits. Every month, 400,000 people set deposit limits—have you set yours yet?
Remember: Gambling Is Not a Money-Making Tool
Gambling should never be viewed as a way to make money. While you may occasionally win, relying on gambling to cover essential expenses like rent or bills can lead to financial difficulties. Always only bet what you can comfortably afford to lose.
Step away: Taking Breaks Is Beneficial
Taking regular breaks from gambling can help you maintain a balanced perspective. Stepping away gives you time to think clearly and prevents gambling from taking priority over other meaningful activities. Spend time with friends and family, pursue other hobbies, and ensure gambling does not interfere with personal relationships. If you find yourself feeling the need to hide or lie about your gambling, consider reaching out for support through a gambling helpline.
Recognizing Warning Signs in Gambling
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you notice any of the following signs:
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford
- Struggling to manage or stop gambling
- Experiencing conflicts with family or friends about your gambling
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Constantly thinking or talking about gambling
- Concealing or lying about your gambling from loved ones
- Gambling to recover previous losses or resolve financial problems
- Continuing to gamble until all your money is gone
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or neglecting bills to fund gambling
- Needing to increase bets or play longer for the same excitement
- Neglecting work, study, family, or personal responsibilities because of gambling
- Feeling anxious, worried, guilty, depressed, or irritable due to gambling
If any of these signs sound familiar, know that free, confidential support is available to help you regain control.
Support Resources Available
GamCare offers online forums and chatrooms where you can connect with others who have similar experiences, find guidance, and offer support. Safer Gambling Week is the perfect opportunity to reflect, discuss, and ensure that gambling remains a fun and safe activity.
Age Restricted 18+
Gambling is age-restricted to 18+ (21+ in the USA). This rule is set in stone and does not get broken, amended to suit or circumvented. You need to be 18 years of age to gamble, anything less and you will not be permitted to open an account, deposit, play or withdraw funds. All gambling operators will demand proof of ID before you can open an account with them. Further age checks will be carried out when you try to withdraw funds/winnings.
If you need help all you have to do is ask, or click on the below links to go directly to one of the many dedicated sites for gambling addiction.
BeGambleAware . GamCare . Gamblers Anonymous.
*Deposit Bonuses refer to new players only. All free games and promotions are for funded players only. Withdrawing funds requires proof of an ID. 18+ players only. BeGambleAware.org.
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