Responsible Gaming

Our Commitment to Safe Gambling

At Somerset Choral Society's guide to new UK bookmakers, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Gambling should always be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble within their means and to seek help if gambling becomes a concern.

Age Verification

All gambling operators in the UK must verify that players are at least 18 years of age, the legal age for gambling in Great Britain. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to place bets or access gambling services. We take age verification seriously and support all measures to protect young people from gambling harm.

If you are under 18, please do not use any bookmaker services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
• Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
• Relationships suffering because of gambling habits
• Feeling guilty or ashamed about gambling behaviour

Self-Help Tools and Safer Gambling Features

Reputable UK bookmakers provide a range of tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a chosen period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a specified timeframe
• Stake Limits: Restrict the maximum bet size on individual wagers
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you have been gambling and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a bookmaker's services
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account with a betting operator

We recommend using these tools as part of your responsible gambling strategy.

Support Organizations in the UK

If you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

GamCare

Website: www.gamcare.org.uk

GamCare is the leading provider of free counselling and support services for problem gamblers in Great Britain. They offer face-to-face counselling, online chat, and telephone support.

Telephone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential)

GamStop

Website: www.gamstop.co.uk

GamStop is the National Self-Exclusion Scheme for Great Britain. It allows you to self-exclude from all participating licensed online gambling operators simultaneously for a period of your choice (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years).

Gamblers Anonymous

A free, peer-support fellowship for people affected by problem gambling. Meetings are held throughout the UK.

Website: Available through GamCare

International Support Resources

If you are outside the UK, support is available in your country:

• 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 – www.bzga.de

If You Need Help

If you believe you have a gambling problem or are concerned about your gambling behaviour, please reach out for support immediately. There is no shame in asking for help – problem gambling is a recognised condition and recovery is possible with the right support.

Take action today:

• Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 or visit www.gamcare.org.uk
• Register with GamStop to self-exclude from all licensed operators
• Speak to a trusted friend or family member about your concerns
• Use the self-help tools provided by your betting operator

Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.