Last Updated: September 30, 2025
Online gambling is meant to be an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Most people gamble responsibly within their means, but for some it becomes problematic. If gambling stops being fun and starts causing stress, financial difficulties, or relationship problems, it's time to reassess your relationship with it.
Before you start gambling, decide how much money and time you can afford to lose. Treat this money as the cost of entertainment, like going to the cinema or a restaurant. Never gamble with money needed for bills, rent, or other essential expenses. Set deposit limits through your casino account settings and stick to them. Most UK-licensed casinos allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits that cannot be increased immediately.
Problem gambling doesn't happen overnight. It develops gradually and can affect anyone regardless of age, income, or background. You might have a problem if you find yourself spending more than you can afford, chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money, borrowing money to gamble, lying to family or friends about gambling, or feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling. Other warning signs include neglecting work or family responsibilities, using gambling to escape problems or negative feelings, and continuing to gamble despite negative consequences.
If you're struggling to control your gambling, self-exclusion can help. UK-licensed casinos offer self-exclusion options from six months up to five years. During this period, the casino will not accept bets from you and will not send you promotional materials. For more comprehensive protection, consider GamStop, a free service that allows you to self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling sites at once. Registration takes minutes and prevents you from accessing gambling sites for your chosen period.
Admitting you have a gambling problem takes courage, but help is available. BeGambleAware offers free, confidential support including online chat, phone support, and face-to-face counselling. Their helpline operates 24 hours a day at 0808 8020 133. GamCare provides similar services including a live chat function on their website. The National Gambling Helpline can also direct you to local support services. These organizations understand gambling problems and can provide practical advice without judgment.
Problem gambling affects more than just the individual. If someone you care about has a gambling problem, it can be difficult to know how to help. Avoid lending them money or paying off gambling debts, as this often enables continued gambling. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to support them through the process. GamAnon offers support groups specifically for family members and friends affected by someone else's gambling. Remember to look after your own wellbeing too.
Gambling problems often lead to serious financial difficulties. If you're in debt due to gambling, contact organizations like StepChange or Citizens Advice for free debt advice. They can help you manage creditors and create a realistic repayment plan. Be honest with them about the cause of your debt so they can provide appropriate support. Many people find that addressing the financial consequences helps them stay motivated to stop gambling.
It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in the UK. All UK-licensed casinos must verify customers' ages before allowing them to deposit or play. If you're a parent concerned about your child gambling, talk to them openly about the risks and set appropriate boundaries on device usage. Most devices allow parental controls that can block gambling sites. If you discover your child has accessed gambling sites, contact the operator immediately and report the incident to the UK Gambling Commission.
BeGambleAware: 0808 8020 133 or visit begambleaware.org. GamCare: 0808 8020 133 or visit gamcare.org.uk. National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133. GamStop (self-exclusion): gamstop.co.uk. Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org.uk. GamAnon (for family members): gamanon.org.uk. Samaritans (emotional support): 116 123.
BestReels takes responsible gambling seriously. We only review casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission that meet responsible gambling standards. Our reviews always include information about available player protection tools. We never encourage excessive gambling or suggest gambling as a solution to financial problems. If you're struggling with gambling, please seek help from the organizations listed above.