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Tips for Safer Gambling

  1. Set a Budget: Determine how much money you can afford to lose before you start gambling. Stick to this budget and never exceed it.
  2. Time Management: Set a time limit for your gambling sessions. It’s easy to lose track of time, so make sure you take regular breaks.
  3. Understand the Games: Make sure you understand the rules and odds of the games you are playing. Knowledge can help you make more informed decisions.
  4. Avoid Chasing Losses: If you lose money, don’t try to win it back by gambling more. This usually leads to even bigger losses.
  5. Play for Fun, Not For Profit: Treat gambling as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. The odds are always in favour of the house over the long term.
  6. Know When to Stop: If you’re on a winning streak, know when to walk away. Similarly, if you’re losing, don’t continue in hopes of a turnaround.
  7. Avoid Gambling When Emotional: Don’t gamble if you’re feeling stressed, depressed, or upset. Your judgment can be impaired, leading to poor decisions.  Additionally, never gamble when you’re intoxicated in any way.
  8. Don't Borrow Money for Gambling: Never use borrowed money to gamble. Only use disposable income that you can afford to lose.
  9. Use Reality Checks: Reality checks remind you how long you’ve been playing. Use these to keep track of your gambling habits.
  10. Self-Exclusion Options: If you feel that your gambling is becoming problematic, make use of self-exclusion tools available. This can help you take a break or stop gambling entirely.
  11. Seek Help if Needed: If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, seek help from professional organisations, such as GamCare. Their Helpline supplies free confidential information, advice and support, 24 hours a day. You can call them on 0808 8020 133, or start a live chat now.
  12. Stay Informed: Regularly educate yourself about responsible gambling practices and stay updated on the resources available to help manage gambling habits.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your gambling remains a safe and enjoyable activity.