Responsible Gambling Tips for Non GamStop Sites

For UK players who choose to gamble at casinos not on GamStop, taking personal responsibility for their gaming habits becomes even more crucial. While these sites offer greater freedom and often more generous bonuses, they do not fall under the UK Gambling Commission’s (UKGC) strict responsible gambling mandates, including the GamStop self-exclusion scheme.

This means the onus is largely on the individual player to ensure their gaming remains a fun and controlled activity, rather than developing into a problem. Thankfully, reputable non GamStop casinos still provide tools and resources to help facilitate responsible play, and there are numerous external organisations dedicated to supporting those who struggle.

Key Principles of Responsible Gambling

Regardless of where you play, these principles should always guide your online gaming:

1. Gamble for Entertainment, Not Income: Understand that gambling is a form of leisure, like going to the cinema or playing a sport. It is not a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has an edge.
2. Set Strict Budgets and Stick to Them: Before you start playing, decide how much money you are willing to lose and do not exceed that amount. This should be disposable income, not money needed for bills, rent, or essentials.
3. Manage Your Time: It’s easy to lose track of time when immersed in gaming. Set time limits for your sessions and take regular breaks.
4. Never Chase Losses: If you’re on a losing streak, accept it. Trying to win back lost money by increasing your bets or playing for longer can quickly lead to bigger financial problems.
5. Don’t Gamble When Emotional: Avoid gambling when you’re stressed, upset, angry, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These states can impair your judgment and lead to impulsive decisions.
6. Balance Gambling with Other Activities: Ensure gambling doesn’t become your sole hobby. Maintain a healthy balance with other recreational pursuits, social interactions, and responsibilities.
7. Know When to Stop: Recognise the signs that gambling is no longer fun or healthy. If you’re experiencing guilt, anxiety, or secrecy around your gambling, it’s time to stop and seek help.

Responsible Gambling Tools at Non-GamStop Casinos

While not mandated by the UKGC, many reputable non-GamStop casinos offer their own suite of responsible gambling tools. Look for these options within your account settings or by contacting customer support:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specific period (daily, weekly, monthly).
• Loss Limits: Define the maximum amount of money you can lose within a set timeframe.
• Wagering Limits: Cap the total amount you can wager over a given period.
• Session Limits / Reality Checks: Set reminders that pop up after a certain amount of time, notifying you of your playing duration and allowing you to decide whether to continue or take a break.
• Time-Out Periods: Temporarily block yourself from accessing your account for a shorter period (e.g., 24 hours, a week, a month).
• Self-Exclusion: Implement a more long-term ban from the casino, usually ranging from six months to several years, or even permanently. Once activated, this cannot be reversed until the period expires.
• Links to External Support: Reputable casinos will provide links to external organizations that offer help and support for gambling problems.

External Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. These organisations offer free, confidential advice and support, regardless of where you gamble:

• GamCare: Provides a National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133, available 24/7), live chat, and a wide range of support services, including forums and group chats.
• GambleAware: Offers free advice, tools, and support to help people stay safe from gambling harms. They have a self-assessment tool and a service finder for local support.
• Gamblers Anonymous (GA): A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences to help each other recover from a gambling problem. They hold regular meetings.
• Gambling Therapy: An international support network providing online practical advice and emotional support to anyone affected by problem gambling.
• National Problem Gambling Clinic: Part of the NHS, offering specialist addiction therapy and recovery for those affected by gambling addiction.
• BetBlocker: A free app that you can install on your devices to block access to thousands of gambling websites and apps, regardless of whether they are on GamStop.
• GamBan: Another popular and effective paid software solution that blocks gambling sites across all your devices.

Playing at non-GamStop casinos offers undeniable benefits in terms of game variety and promotional flexibility. However, with this freedom comes the heightened need for self-awareness and proactive responsible gambling practices. By setting your own limits, utilizing the tools provided by the casino, and knowing when and where to seek external support, you can ensure that your online gaming experience remains enjoyable, safe, and truly under your control.