At www.efp.org.uk, we are committed to promoting a safe and responsible gambling environment. We believe that gambling should always be an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to make money or resolve financial difficulties. These resources are intended to assist key stakeholders in implementing and advancing policies that safeguard against gambling-related harm.
Understanding Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling means staying in control of how much time and money you spend. NCPG’s Internet Responsible Gambling Standards are designed to facilitate discussions among all stakeholders on internet gambling and to establish a framework for responsible practices.
How to Gamble Responsibly
Gambling responsibly means following these key guidelines:
- Set a time limit before you start gambling and stick to it
- Set a money limit before you start gambling and stick to it
- Gamble only for fun – it’s entertainment, not a way to make money
- Never chase losses – accept that losing is part of the game
- Don’t gamble when upset or stressed – emotional decisions can lead to problems
The Lower-Risk Gambling Guidelines
Research has established specific guidelines to help minimize gambling-related harm:
- Gamble no more than 1% of household income
- Gamble no more than 4 days per month
- Avoid regularly gambling at more than 2 types of games
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Learn about safer gambling and how to recognize the signs of harm that can be associated with gambling. Warning signs include:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling irritable when trying to cut down on gambling
- Lying to loved ones about gambling habits
- Gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
- Chasing losses
- Jeopardizing relationships, job opportunities, or education because of gambling
Tools for Responsible Gambling
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits
- Time limits: Set session time reminders
- Self-assessment: Take tests to evaluate your gambling behavior
- Account history: Review your gambling activity and spending
- Reality checks: Get notifications about how long you’ve been playing
- Self-exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block your access to gambling sites
Self-Exclusion Programs
Self-exclusion programs are available at all reputable online casinos. These programs allow you to voluntarily ban yourself from gambling for a specified period or permanently.
Responsible Gambling Plan
All casinos we review are expected to maintain a responsible gambling plan that includes procedures to identify problem gamblers and provide appropriate intervention.
Help and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, help is available:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7 confidential support)
- Gamblers Anonymous: www.gamblersanonymous.org
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- BeGambleAware: www.begambleaware.org
Our Promise
Efp.org.uk is committed to providing comprehensive information about casino sister sites while promoting responsible gambling practices. We regularly review effectiveness principles meant to spark discussion, encourage collaboration, and generate new insights into responsible gambling.
Remember, gambling should always be fun. If it stops being fun, it’s time to stop.