Gambling should always be an enjoyable form of entertainment – never a way to make money or escape from problems. At Grace Media Casinos, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling and helping our readers stay in control of their play.
If you are struggling with gambling, please contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (freephone, 24 hours a day) or visit GambleAware.org for free advice and support.
Staying in Control
There are several practical steps you can take to make sure gambling remains fun and does not become a problem:
- Set a budget – Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start playing, and stick to it. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Set time limits – It is easy to lose track of time when playing online. Set a timer or use the session reminders available at most Grace Media casinos.
- Do not chase losses – If you have lost money, resist the temptation to keep playing in the hope of winning it back. This is one of the most common causes of problem gambling.
- Take regular breaks – Step away from the screen regularly. Gambling should be a leisure activity, not something that dominates your time.
- Never gamble under the influence – Alcohol and drugs impair your judgement and can lead to reckless decisions.
- Balance gambling with other activities – Make sure gambling is just one of many things you do for fun, not the only one.
Tools Available at Grace Media Casinos
All UKGC-licensed casinos, including Grace Media sites, are required to offer tools that help you manage your gambling. These typically include:
- Deposit limits – Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit.
- Loss limits – Restrict the amount you can lose over a given period.
- Session time reminders – Receive notifications about how long you have been playing.
- Cooling-off periods – Take a short break from your account (24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, or 30 days).
- Self-exclusion – Close your account for a minimum of six months if you need a longer break.
You can usually find these tools in the “My Account” or “Responsible Gambling” section of each casino site. If you cannot find them, contact the casino’s customer support team for help.
Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually, and it is not always easy to recognise in yourself. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
- Spending more money or time on gambling than you intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when you are not gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Lying to friends or family about how much you gamble
- Neglecting work, studies, or relationships because of gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, depression, or other problems
- Feeling unable to stop even when you want to
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available free of charge.
Self-Exclusion with GamStop
GamStop is the UK’s free self-exclusion scheme. When you register with GamStop, you are excluded from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites for a period of your choice (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years). This includes all Grace Media casinos and every other UKGC-licensed operator.
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Visit gamstop.co.uk to register.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is affected by problem gambling, the following organisations provide free, confidential support:
- GambleAware – Free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling. Helpline: 0808 8020 133.
- GamCare – Provides counselling, support, and treatment for problem gamblers and their families.
- GamStop – Free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites.
- Gambling Therapy – Free online support, including live chat and forums, available worldwide.
Remember, you do not have to deal with problem gambling alone. Help is available, and reaching out is the first step towards recovery.