Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
We believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites like those featured on our platform should be enjoyed responsibly and within your means. If you find yourself betting more than you can afford to lose, or if gambling is causing you distress, please seek help immediately.
Age Verification
All UK betting sites are legally required to verify that users are at least 18 years of age before allowing them to gamble. This is a legal requirement in Great Britain. If you are under 18, you must not use any betting site or gambling service.
Parents and guardians: If you're concerned about a young person's access to gambling services, please speak to them about the risks and consider using parental controls on devices.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of the following warning signs:
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Lying to friends or family about the extent of your gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling
If you recognise any of these signs, please seek support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable UK betting sites offer tools to help you stay in control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from a betting site
We strongly encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling is becoming a concern.
Support Organisations
If you're struggling with gambling, help is available. Below are trusted organisations that provide free, confidential support:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme. Register to exclude yourself from all licensed UK online gambling operators. www.gamstop.co.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: NHS-funded treatment service. Call 020 7054 2000 or visit your GP
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
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) - www.bzga.de
If you are based outside the UK, please contact your local gambling support service.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out for support. There is no shame in asking for help, and organisations like GamCare provide free, confidential assistance.
Take action today:
- Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7)
- Register with GamStop to exclude yourself from UK betting sites
- Speak to your GP or a healthcare professional
- Talk to a trusted friend or family member
Recovery is possible, and help is available. You are not alone.
This information is provided for harm reduction purposes. Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. If you choose to gamble, please do so responsibly and within your means.