Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At sjhct.org.uk, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or a sporting event. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.

Remember: The house always has an edge. Outcomes are determined by chance, and no strategy can guarantee winnings.

Age Verification & Legal Requirements

Gambling in the United Kingdom is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling, including casino games.

• All casinos we affiliate with conduct age verification checks.
• If you are under 18, you must not use any gambling services.
• If you become aware of underage gambling, please report it to the relevant operator.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing. Please seek help immediately.

• Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more.
• Hiding Gambling Activity: Keeping your gambling secret from friends and family.
• Increasing Amounts: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Gambling interferes with work, school, or family obligations.
• Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling.
• Mood Changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble.
• Financial Problems: Borrowing money, maxing out credit cards, or facing debt due to gambling.
• Lying About Gambling: Deceiving others about the amount of time or money spent gambling.
• Using Gambling to Escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions.
• Jeopardising Relationships: Gambling is causing conflict with loved ones.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. We encourage all players to use these features:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month.
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period.
• Wagering Limits: Restrict the amount you can stake on individual bets.
• Time-Out/Cool-Off: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks).
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications during play sessions to remind you how long and how much you've been gambling.
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a casino for a set period or indefinitely.

Always speak to your casino's customer support team to activate or adjust these tools.

Where to Get Help — Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available. Please reach out to one of the organisations below:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free counselling, support groups, and information
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7)
• GamStop – National Self-Exclusion Scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  Phone: 0800 195 8265
• Samaritans – Emotional support available 24/7
  www.samaritans.org
  Phone: 116 123

International Support

• Australia – Gambling Help Online
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada – Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States – National Council on Problem Gambling
  www.ncpgambling.org
  National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• Germany – Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  www.bzga.de

If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today

Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you feel that your gambling is out of control, or if you're concerned about someone else's gambling habits, do not hesitate to reach out for professional support.

The organisations listed above are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential advice, counselling, and practical help. Recovery is possible, and support is available whenever you need it.

You are not alone. Help is available right now.

Last updated: 2026. This information is provided for harm reduction purposes. For the most current support options and resources, please visit the organisation websites directly.