Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Atkinson's School of Motoring, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online gambling and betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble within your means and set limits that you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction to participate in online gambling and betting activities in the United Kingdom. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online. All licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to place bets or play casino games.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your gambling behaviour, please seek help immediately:
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about the amount you spend
- Neglecting family, work, or social commitments due to gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Constantly thinking about gambling or planning your next session
- Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- Increasing the amount you bet to experience the same excitement
- Failed attempts to reduce or control your gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or regulate emotions
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online casinos and betting sites offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you can lose over a set period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out or Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling sites for a defined period (typically 6 months to 5 years)
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits and stay in control of your gaming experience.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please contact one of the following organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free, confidential support and counselling for problem gambling. www.gamcare.org.uk | Call: 0808 8020 133
- GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling in Great Britain. Register to block access to all licensed online gambling sites. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous: Free support groups and peer-to-peer help. www.gamblersanonymous.org.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 | Call: 1-800-522-4700
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) - www.bzga.de
Call to Action
If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help today. Problem gambling is a recognised addiction that can be treated. There is no shame in reaching out to support services. Your mental health and wellbeing are important. Contact one of the organisations listed above to speak with a trained advisor who can provide confidential support and guidance.
Remember: Gambling should always be fun and within your control. If it stops being enjoyable or starts causing problems, it's time to seek help.