Responsible Gambling

Understanding Responsible Gambling

Gambling should be an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. At hostofferpress, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and ensuring that our visitors have access to information and resources to help them gamble safely.

Important Principles

Responsible gambling means keeping gambling fun and safe. Here are key principles to follow:

1. Gambling is Entertainment, Not Income

Never view gambling as a way to make money or solve financial difficulties. The odds are designed so that, over time, the house has an advantage. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose and consider any money spent on gambling as the cost of entertainment.

2. Set Limits and Stick to Them

Before you start gambling, decide how much money and time you can afford to spend. Set clear limits and stick to them, even if you're winning. Most UK-licensed casinos offer tools to help you set deposit limits, loss limits, and session time limits.

3. Never Chase Your Losses

One of the most dangerous gambling behaviours is trying to win back money you've lost. This often leads to bigger losses and can quickly spiral out of control. If you've reached your limit, stop gambling and take a break.

4. Don't Gamble Under the Influence

Avoid gambling when you're upset, stressed, depressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These conditions can impair your judgement and lead to poor decision-making.

5. Balance Gambling with Other Activities

Gambling should be just one of many leisure activities in your life. Make sure you maintain a healthy balance with work, family, friends, and other hobbies.

6. Take Regular Breaks

It's easy to lose track of time when gambling. Take regular breaks to maintain perspective and avoid making impulsive decisions.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of anxiety or depression
• Lying to family or friends about your gambling
• Chasing losses or gambling to try to win back money
• Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, or anxious about your gambling
• Having arguments with family or friends about money or gambling
• Thinking about gambling constantly
• Finding it difficult to control or stop gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately.

Self-Assessment Tools

If you're concerned about your gambling, several organisations offer free, confidential self-assessment tools:

• GamCare offers an online self-assessment tool
• BeGambleAware provides resources to evaluate your gambling behaviour

Tools to Help You Stay in Control

UK-licensed casino operators are required to offer various tools to help you manage your gambling:

Deposit Limits

Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit into your casino account.

Loss Limits

Set limits on how much you can lose over a specific period.

Session Time Limits

Set limits on how long you can play in a single session.

Reality Checks

Receive regular notifications showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.

Take a Break

Temporarily suspend your account for a period of 24 hours to several weeks.

Self-Exclusion

Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from gambling. UK operators participate in multi-operator self-exclusion schemes like GAMSTOP.

GAMSTOP - National Self-Exclusion Scheme

GAMSTOP is a free service that allows you to self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling operators for a period of your choosing (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years). Once registered, you will be prevented from using gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain for the period you have chosen.

Support Organisations

If you need help with problem gambling, these organisations provide free, confidential support:

GamCare

GamCare provides free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.

• Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
• National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7)
• Live chat support available on their website

BeGambleAware

BeGambleAware is an independent charity providing information, advice, and support to anyone affected by gambling harms.

• Website: www.begambleaware.org
• Offers educational resources and self-assessment tools

Gambling Therapy

Gambling Therapy offers free practical advice and emotional support to anyone affected by problem gambling.

• Website: www.gamblingtherapy.org
• Online support groups and one-to-one counselling
• Available in multiple languages

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from gambling addiction.

• Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
• Face-to-face and online meetings available

National Gambling Support Network

A network of organisations across the UK providing specialist treatment and support for gambling harms.

• Find local support services through GamCare or BeGambleAware

Support for Family and Friends

Problem gambling doesn't just affect the gambler—it can have a significant impact on family members and friends. If someone you care about has a gambling problem, support is available:

• GamAnon: Support groups for family and friends affected by someone else's gambling (www.gamanon.org.uk)
• GamCare: Offers support for affected others through their helpline and online resources
• Gordon Moody Association: Provides residential treatment and support (www.gordonmoody.org.uk)

Underage Gambling Prevention

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK. Parents and guardians should:

• Keep gambling accounts secure and never share login details
• Use parental controls on devices and internet connections
• Talk to children about the risks of gambling
• Monitor children's online activities
• Set a good example with your own gambling behaviour

UK Gambling Commission

The UK Gambling Commission regulates gambling in Great Britain. All casino operators featured on our website are required to hold a valid licence from the Commission. The Commission ensures that gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and that children and vulnerable people are protected from harm.

Website: www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk

Our Commitment

At hostofferpress, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling. We only feature casino operators that are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and that demonstrate a commitment to player protection and responsible gambling practices. We encourage all visitors to gamble responsibly and to seek help if gambling becomes a problem.