responsible gambling
Gambling should be fun, not a source of stress. Here is how to stay in control.
gambling should stay fun
At Betscopia, we believe gambling should always be an enjoyable form of entertainment, never a way to make money or escape problems. The vast majority of people who gamble do so without any issues, but for some, gambling can become problematic. This page provides information and resources to help you stay in control.
set your limits
One of the most effective ways to gamble responsibly is to set clear limits before you start. All UKGC-licensed operators are required to offer responsible gambling tools, including:
- Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit.
- Loss limits: Define the maximum amount you are prepared to lose in a given period.
- Session time limits: Set reminders or automatic logouts after a specified duration.
- Reality checks: Receive pop-up notifications showing how long you have been playing and your net position.
- Cooling-off periods: Take a short break from gambling (24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, or 30 days).
We recommend setting these limits when you first register with an operator, before you start playing.
self-exclusion with gamstop
If you feel you need a longer break from gambling, GamStop is the UK's national online self-exclusion scheme. When you register with GamStop, you will be excluded from all UKGC-licensed online gambling operators for your chosen period:
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 5 years
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Visit GamStop.co.uk to register.
For self-exclusion from land-based gambling premises, contact your local betting shops or casinos directly, or use the MOSES (Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme) service.
warning signs of problem gambling
It is important to recognise the early signs that gambling may be becoming a problem. Ask yourself honestly:
- Are you spending more money or time on gambling than you can afford?
- Are you chasing losses or gambling to win back money you have lost?
- Are you borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling?
- Is gambling causing arguments with family or friends?
- Are you neglecting work, studies, or responsibilities because of gambling?
- Do you feel anxious, irritable, or restless when you try to stop gambling?
- Are you lying to others about how much time or money you spend gambling?
- Do you gamble to escape stress, boredom, or emotional pain?
If you answered "yes" to any of these, we encourage you to seek support. There is no shame in asking for help, and free, confidential support is available around the clock.
National Gambling Helpline
Free, confidential advice and support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
0808 8020 133
Operated by GamCare. Available to anyone affected by gambling.
Calls are free from UK landlines and most mobile networks.
support organisations
The following organisations provide free, confidential support for anyone affected by problem gambling:
underage gambling
Gambling in the UK is strictly for persons aged 18 and over. It is a criminal offence for anyone under 18 to gamble, and for any operator to knowingly allow underage gambling. All UKGC-licensed operators are required to carry out robust age verification before allowing customers to deposit or play.
If you are concerned about a young person gambling, you can contact the helpline on 0808 8020 133 for advice and support.
Parents and guardians can also use internet filtering software to block access to gambling sites on devices used by minors. Options include parental controls built into most operating systems, as well as services like Net Nanny and Qustodio.