Responsible Gaming

Introduction

At Lancaster Faith and Justice, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming. Gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in the United Kingdom. If you are under 18, you should not use any betting services. We take age verification seriously and encourage parents and guardians to monitor young people's online activity.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Please be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding gambling activity from friends, family, or partners
• Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
• Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Unable to stop or cut down despite wanting to
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Lying about the extent of your gambling

Self-Help Tools

Most reputable betting operators offer tools to help you control your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit
• Loss Limits: Set limits on how much you're willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing
• Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period
• Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily close your account if you feel you cannot gamble responsibly

Support Organizations

If you're concerned about your gambling or someone else's, help is available:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free counselling and support service
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Telephone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential)
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  Register to be excluded from all online gambling operators
• Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support and 12-step programme
  Telephone: 020 7384 3040

International Support

• 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
• Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)

Take Action Today

If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out – problem gambling affects people from all walks of life, and support is available.

Contact one of the organisations above, speak to your GP, or reach out to a trusted friend or family member. The earlier you seek help, the better.