Camelot has worked with GamCare to develop policies and practices that address problem gambling. Whilst the majority of people play within their means, a few may find it difficult. GamCare advises that players should always remember the following:
- Playing National Lottery games should be entertaining and fun and is not investing money;
- Avoid chasing losses;
- Only play an amount that you can afford;
- Keep track of the time and the amount of money you are spending;
- If required, make use of the Play Limits available for Instant Wins or Lottery Draw Games;
- If you need to have a break from play, remember that you can exclude yourself from one or all of the Instant Wins;
- If you need to talk to someone about problem gambling then contact GamCare (details listed below).
If you're concerned that gambling may be playing too large a part in your life (or someone else's), the following questions may help you to decide if you have a problem:
- Do you skip work or college to gamble?
- Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
- If you run out of money whilst gambling, do you feel desperate and feel the need to gamble again as soon as possible?
- Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even money you need for essentials?
- Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time that you have gambled?
- Have others ever criticised your gambling?
- Have you lied, stolen or borrowed just to get money to gamble or to pay gambling debts
- Are you reluctant to spend money on anything else?
The more questions to which you answered yes, the more likely you are to have a serious gambling problem. To speak to someone in confidence contact GamCare on 0845 600 0133 or visit the GamCare website.
Gambling can be great fun, but it's also important to know when to stop and what the danger signs are. So we've produced a guide to sensible gambling to help you stay informed, whether you're a parent, concerned about a friend or worried about your own gambling.
