Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Howden-le-Wear Historical Society, we believe that gaming should always be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Bingo and online gaming should be fun, social activities that you can afford to lose.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set limits before you play and stick to them.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any gambling activities in Great Britain. This is a legal requirement.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble. If you are aware of under-age gambling, please report it to the appropriate authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Please be aware of the following warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Experiencing mood swings or emotional distress related to gambling
- Being unable to control or reduce your gambling
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable gaming operators offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
- Spending Limits: Control your total spending on gaming activities
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing
- Time-Outs: Take a break from gambling for a set period
- Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from gaming platforms for extended periods
Take advantage of these tools to protect yourself and maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organizations provide free, confidential support:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free support and counselling for problem gamblers and their families. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling in Great Britain. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous: A peer-support fellowship for those with gambling problems. www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: NHS-funded specialist treatment. www.cnwl.nhs.uk
International Support
- 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, Reach Out Today
If you think you may have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support—problem gambling affects many people, and help is available.
Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) or visit www.gamcare.org.uk for more information.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it's not, help is available.