Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At Open Minds Events, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices across all our recommended betting sites. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Age Verification
All gambling in the United Kingdom is strictly regulated and only available to individuals aged 18 years or older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement before participating in any betting activities. Licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to recover lost money by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Increasing Stakes: Needing to bet more money to achieve the same excitement
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritizing gambling over work, school, or family obligations
- Using Gambling to Escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Borrowing Money: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling
- Physical or Mental Health Changes: Experiencing sleep issues, anxiety, or depression related to gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Responsible betting operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks during gameplay
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications about how long you've been gambling
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting sites
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account with one or more operators
We recommend using these tools proactively to maintain responsible gaming habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available:
United Kingdom
- GamCare
Free, confidential counselling and support
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) - GamStop
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Allows you to exclude from all UK-licensed operators simultaneously - Gamblers Anonymous
Peer support and 12-step recovery programmes
Phone: 0207 384 3060
International Resources
- 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 (BZgA) – www.bzga.de
Take Action Today
If you are experiencing problems with gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out—support services are confidential, free, and designed to help you regain control.
Remember: Gambling should only be a form of entertainment. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and always set limits before you play.
Last updated: 2026