Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Cognition Matters, we believe gambling should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites should be used for fun and leisure only. If you find yourself relying on gambling for income or to recover losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
All gambling in the UK is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any betting activities. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or place bets on any betting site.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or social relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs in your own behaviour, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most responsible betting sites offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a set period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a temporary break from gambling for a period you specify (hours or days)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from a betting site or multiple sites via GamStop
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help, these organizations provide free, confidential support:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counselling and support for problem gambling. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to self-exclude from all regulated UK betting sites. www.gamstop.co.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: NHS-funded treatment service in London. Phone: 020 7054 2000
- Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support meetings across the UK. www.gamblersanonymous.org.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
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) - www.bzga.de
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling can affect your mental health, relationships, and finances. There is no shame in seeking help. Support is available 24/7 from trained professionals who understand what you're going through.
Don't suffer in silence. Contact GamCare or GamStop today if you or someone you know needs support. These services are confidential, free, and can make a real difference.