Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Unconventional Connections, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling. Betting and casino games should be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has an edge, and you should only ever gamble with money you can afford to lose.
If you choose to gamble, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
All gambling in the UK is strictly regulated and restricted to adults aged 18 years or over. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble or use betting services.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access any betting or casino websites. Parents and guardians are encouraged to implement appropriate parental controls.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Constantly thinking about gambling or past bets
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money for the same effect
- Repeatedly trying to cut down or stop gambling but being unable to do so
- Feeling anxious or irritable when attempting to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, relieve negative emotions, or cope with stress
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying to family and friends about the extent of your gambling
- Neglecting important relationships, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties or loan defaults related to gambling
If you experience three or more of these signs, you may have a gambling problem and should seek professional support.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable betting operators offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit. Once reached, you won't be able to deposit more until the period resets.
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose over a set period. This helps prevent chasing losses.
- Reality Checks: Set reminders that pop up during gambling sessions to help you track time and spending.
- Time Limits: Restrict how long you can gamble in a single session.
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a betting site for a set period (days, weeks, months, or years). During this time, you won't be able to access your account or place bets.
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely.
We strongly recommend using these tools if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available. The following organizations offer free, confidential help:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counseling and support for problem gamblers and their families. www.gamcare.org.uk | Helpline: 0808 8020 133
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for Great Britain. Self-exclude from all participating licensed betting operators in one go. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous: Free support groups and peer-to-peer help. www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: NHS-funded specialist treatment service. www.cnwl.nhs.uk
International Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online - www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council - www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling - www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) - www.bzga.de
If You Need Help
There is no shame in asking for help. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above. Professional support can make a real difference.
Remember: It's never too late to seek help. Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 or visit www.gamcare.org.uk for confidential support today.