Responsible Gambling Guide
At Non GamStop Casinos, we believe that gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or escape from personal problems. While non-GamStop sites offer more freedom and fewer restrictions, this freedom comes with a greater responsibility to play safely.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you maintain control, recognize the signs of problem gambling, and find professional help if you or someone you know needs it.
⚠️ Signs of Problem Gambling
Gambling addiction can happen to anyone. Be honest with yourself and ask these questions:
- Do you chase your losses, trying to win back money you’ve lost?
- Do you lie to family or friends about how much time or money you spend gambling?
- Do you gamble with money needed for essentials like rent or bills?
- Do you feel anxious, depressed, or irritable when you are not gambling?
- Have you tried to stop playing but failed?
If you answered "Yes" to any of these, it is time to take action and seek help.
Tools for Staying in Control
Even though non-GamStop casinos are not part of the UK self-exclusion scheme, reputable offshore operators still provide tools to help you manage your gameplay. We strongly recommend using them:
1. Deposit Limits
Set a cap on how much you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly. Once you reach this limit, the casino will not allow further transactions until the period resets.
2. Loss Limits
This prevents you from losing more than a specific amount in a session. It protects your bankroll from "tilt" moments.
3. Reality Checks
Set a timer (e.g., every 30 or 60 minutes) that pops up on your screen to remind you how long you have been playing and how much you have won or lost.
4. Time-Out / Cool-Off
If you need a short break, you can freeze your account for 24 hours up to 6 weeks. You will not be able to log in during this time.
5. Self-Exclusion
You can request a permanent ban from a specific casino. Unlike GamStop, this usually only applies to that specific operator, so you may need to contact each casino individually.
UK Support Organizations & Helplines
There are free, confidential services available 24/7 for UK residents. You do not have to face this alone.
GamCare
The leading UK provider of information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
BeGambleAware
Offers confidential help and advice. Their website provides a simple quiz to assess your gambling habits.
Gambling Therapy
A global service offering free practical advice and emotional support to anyone affected by problem gambling.
Gordon Moody
Provides residential treatment courses for people who are severely addicted to gambling.
Medical Help (NHS)
The NHS offers specialized treatment for gambling addiction, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: 020 7381 7722
- Northern Gambling Service: 0300 300 1490
Software to Block Gambling Sites
Since GamStop does not cover offshore casinos, you can use blocking software installed directly on your phone or computer. This software blocks access to all gambling sites, regardless of their license.
GamBlock
Sophisticated analysis software that blocks new gambling sites as soon as they appear.
Get GamBlockProtection of Minors
Gambling is strictly for those over 18. If you share your computer with minors, use filtering software to prevent them from accessing gambling content:
- Net Nanny: Filtering software that protects families online.
- CYBERsitter: Allows parents to block specific sites.