Responsible Gaming

Introduction

At creationsouthwark.org, we believe that gambling should be enjoyed purely as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites can be fun and exciting, but it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means. Always remember that the house has an edge, and you should only bet money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in the United Kingdom. If you are under 18, gambling is illegal and we strongly encourage you to seek other forms of entertainment. All reputable betting sites require age verification before allowing access to gambling services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone else, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
• Hiding your gambling activity or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
• Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
• Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, anxiety, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, study, or relationships due to gambling
• Experiencing sleep problems or health issues related to stress from gambling

Self-Help Tools

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 day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose in a set timeframe
• Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications reminding you how long you've been gambling
• Time-Outs: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours or days)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a betting site for a period you choose

If you need comprehensive self-exclusion across multiple UK operators, GamStop allows you to self-exclude from all licensed gambling websites simultaneously.

Support Organizations

If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available and free. Here are trusted organisations that can help:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free confidential support, counselling, and advice
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
• GamStop – National self-exclusion register for online gambling
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gamblers Anonymous – Free support groups across the UK
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
• National Problem Gambling Clinic – NHS-funded specialist treatment
  Phone: 0203 318 5000

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

Take Action Today

If you think you have a gambling problem, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support – problem gambling is a recognised condition, and professional help is available. Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 or visit www.gamcare.org.uk to speak to someone confidentially.

Remember: You are not alone, and recovery is possible with the right support.