Responsible Gambling Guide for UK Players
At Best Australian Online Casinos, we are committed to promoting a safe, enjoyable, and responsible gaming experience for UK players exploring Australian online casinos. Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a source of stress, financial difficulty, or other adverse effects. Below, you’ll find detailed guidance on responsible gambling practices, ways to identify problem gambling, steps to play responsibly, and contact details for helpful organisations and resources.
Recognising Problem Gambling
It’s essential to be aware of the signs of problem gambling to take action early. Here are some indicators that gambling may be becoming problematic:
- Increasing Time and Money Spent on Gambling: Spending more time or money on gambling than initially planned.
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back losses by placing larger bets or gambling more frequently.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, social, or family obligations due to gambling.
- Borrowing Money to Gamble: Using credit or borrowing money specifically to fund gambling activities.
- Emotional Distress: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed due to gambling.
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Keeping gambling activities secret or lying about them to friends and family.
- Difficulty Stopping: Feeling unable to control or stop gambling, even when wanting to.
If any of these behaviours sound familiar, it may be time to consider taking steps to manage or reduce gambling activities.
Practical Steps for Responsible Gambling
Set Time and Spending Limits
- Decide on a budget and a specific amount of time for gambling. Stick to these limits, and avoid adjusting them during gameplay.
Only Gamble with Disposable Income
- Use only money you can afford to lose. Never gamble with funds intended for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food.
Take Regular Breaks
- Taking frequent breaks can help maintain control and allow you to assess if you’re still enjoying the experience or if it’s causing stress.
Avoid Chasing Losses
- Accept that losses are part of gambling, and resist the urge to increase bets to recover losses, as this can lead to greater financial strain.
Don’t Gamble Under the Influence
- Avoid gambling when feeling upset, stressed, or under the influence of substances that may impair judgement. Clear-headed gambling enables better decisions.
Use Self-Exclusion Tools
- Many online casinos offer self-exclusion options, allowing you to take a break from gambling. You can also consider using software tools to restrict access to gambling sites if stopping is difficult.
Track Your Gambling Activity
- Keep a record of the time and money spent on gambling each month. Reviewing this information can help you assess your habits and make adjustments if necessary.
Helpful Organisations and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, several organisations in the UK offer support, advice, and assistance. Here are some trusted resources:
GamCare
- GamCare provides free support, advice, and counselling for those affected by problem gambling in the UK.
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (Free, 24/7)
- Website: gamcare.org.uk
BeGambleAware
- BeGambleAware offers information to help people make informed decisions about gambling, with self-assessment tools and advice on responsible gambling.
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (Same as GamCare, Free, 24/7)
- Website: begambleaware.org
National Gambling Helpline
- The National Gambling Helpline provides confidential support and guidance on gambling issues for anyone in the UK.
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (Free, 24/7)
- Website: gamblingtherapy.org/en
Gordon Moody Association
- Gordon Moody offers intensive support and residential treatment programmes for those severely affected by problem gambling.
- Phone: 01384 241292
- Website: gordonmoody.org.uk
Gamblers Anonymous UK
- Gamblers Anonymous provides peer support groups and forums for those affected by gambling addiction, including meetings across the UK and online support.
- Website: gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Additional Tips for Responsible Gambling
- Self-Assessment: Regularly evaluate your gambling habits with self-assessment tools available on sites like BeGambleAware.
- Limit Access: Consider using site blockers, such as BetBlocker (betblocker.org), to limit your access to gambling websites if you’re finding it hard to control usage.
- Seek Support: If you’re struggling, reach out to family or friends. Talking about your gambling habits can provide relief and help gain perspective.
- Educate Yourself: Understanding how gambling works, including the odds, house edge, and randomness, can prevent unrealistic expectations and help maintain healthy gaming behaviour.
Gambling can be an enjoyable experience when done responsibly. If you ever feel that it’s becoming too much, remember you’re not alone—many resources are available to support you in maintaining a healthy and balanced relationship with gambling.
