Responsible gambling

This page sets out the risks associated with gambling, the warning signs of problem play, and the tools and support services available to players in the United Kingdom. Access to gambling-related content on this site is restricted to visitors aged 18 and over.

Understanding the risks of gambling

Gambling should always be treated as a form of entertainment rather than a way to generate income or resolve financial difficulty. Outcomes in casino games are governed by random processes, and no method of play can guarantee consistent results.

Approaching gambling with unrealistic expectations increases the likelihood of financial and emotional harm. We encourage readers to view any spending on gambling as money that will not be returned, and to plan their activity accordingly.

A balanced approach involves setting a budget in advance, avoiding gambling as a response to stress or financial pressure, and stopping play once a predetermined limit has been reached.

Recognising the warning signs

Problem gambling often develops gradually, which makes early recognition important. Certain behavioural changes may indicate that gambling has moved beyond recreational use.

Common warning signs include:

• 🎯 spending increasing amounts of time or money on gambling activity;
• 🎯 chasing losses by continuing to play in an attempt to recover them;
• 🎯 borrowing money or using funds intended for essential expenses;
• 🎯 neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities because of gambling;
• 🎯 feeling irritable, anxious, or preoccupied when not gambling.

Noticing one or more of these signs in oneself or in someone close is a reason to pause, reassess habits, and consider seeking support.

Tools for staying in control

Licensed UK operators are required to offer a range of account-level tools that allow players to manage their activity. Readers are encouraged to make use of these tools where they are offered.

Common control measures include:

• ⏱️ deposit limits, which cap the amount that can be added to an account over a set period;
• ⏸️ time-out periods, which temporarily suspend access to an account for a defined length of time;
• 🚫 self-exclusion, which blocks account access for a longer period, typically six months or more;
• 📊 reality checks and session reminders, which display time and spending during play;
• 🔔 loss limits, which restrict the amount that can be lost within a chosen timeframe.

These tools are set directly through an operator's account settings and can usually be adjusted or reduced at any time, though increasing a limit is normally subject to a cooling-off period.

GAMSTOP and national self-exclusion

GAMSTOP is the national self-exclusion scheme for Great Britain, allowing an individual to register once and be excluded from all gambling websites and apps licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Registration is free and typically remains active for a minimum period chosen by the user.

Players who wish to step away from gambling entirely are encouraged to register with GAMSTOP as a straightforward and effective way to restrict access across multiple platforms at once, rather than relying on individual account settings alone.

Where to find support in the UK

A number of independent organisations in the United Kingdom offer free, confidential support to anyone affected by gambling, whether directly or through a friend or family member.

• 📞 National Gambling Helpline – confidential telephone and webchat support, available around the clock;
• 🧭 GamCare – information, counselling, and structured support programmes for players and their families;
• 🛡️ GambleAware – independent guidance, referral services, and information on treatment options across the UK;
• 🔒 GAMSTOP – national self-exclusion scheme covering UK-licensed gambling websites and apps.

These services are free to use and do not require a referral. Readers who recognise warning signs in themselves or others are encouraged to reach out to one of these organisations at an early stage.

Protecting minors

Gambling content on this site is intended strictly for adults aged 18 and over. We do not knowingly direct any part of this portal towards individuals under this age.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to use parental control software and content filters on shared or household devices to prevent access by minors. Supervision of internet use by younger family members remains an important part of preventing early exposure to gambling-related material.

Contact

Questions regarding this Responsible Gambling policy, or requests for further information about the resources listed on this page, can be directed to [email protected].

This policy applies from the date of publication on Wharfevalleyfarms.co.uk and may be updated periodically to reflect current guidance and available support services.