Safer Play and Gambling Control
Last updated: 15 June 2025
Gambling should remain a form of paid entertainment rather than a way to solve financial problems or recover losses. Most players can keep their activity within personal limits, but gambling may become harmful when it starts affecting money, time, relationships or emotional well-being.
This page explains the account controls available to players and lists independent organisations that provide information and support for gambling-related difficulties.
Recognising when gambling is becoming a problem
It may be time to reduce or stop gambling when you find it difficult to follow a budget, spend longer playing than intended or continue after reaching a planned limit.
Other warning signs may include:
- Trying to recover previous losses by placing additional bets.
- Using money intended for bills, food, rent or other essential expenses.
- Hiding gambling activity from relatives or friends.
- Borrowing money to continue playing.
- Feeling anxious, frustrated or restless when unable to gamble.
- Allowing gambling to interfere with work, study, sleep or relationships.
- Repeatedly deciding to stop and then returning sooner than planned.
Account controls available to players
Players who want greater control over their activity may request limits for deposits or playing. These tools can help establish a fixed spending boundary before gambling begins.
A player may also request temporary or permanent self-exclusion. Once self-exclusion is applied, access to gambling services may be restricted for the selected period.
Deposit limits, playing restrictions and self-exclusion requests can be arranged through the Live Chat support service.
Steps that can help reduce gambling activity
Setting clear rules before playing can make it easier to avoid impulsive decisions. Decide in advance how much money and time you can afford to spend, and stop when either limit is reached.
- Do not treat gambling as a source of regular income.
- Never use borrowed money or essential household funds.
- Avoid increasing stakes to recover a loss.
- Take regular breaks during longer sessions.
- Do not gamble while upset, under pressure or affected by alcohol.
- Keep track of deposits, withdrawals and total playing time.
- Balance gambling with work, family, exercise and other activities.
Helping someone close to you
A friend or family member may need support if gambling begins to affect their finances, behaviour or daily responsibilities. Approach the conversation calmly and focus on specific changes you have noticed rather than making accusations.
You can encourage the person to use account limits, request self-exclusion or speak with an independent gambling support organisation. The Live Chat support team can also provide information about the responsible gambling options available through the account.
Independent support organisations
Professional support may be appropriate when gambling is difficult to control or causes financial, emotional or personal harm. The following independent organisations provide information and assistance:
Keep gambling within affordable limits
Gambling outcomes are uncertain, and losses are always possible. Only use money you can afford to lose, review your activity regularly and use the available restriction tools as soon as gambling no longer feels manageable.