Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Galley in the Bay, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or the theatre. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites should be enjoyed responsibly, with money you can afford to lose. If you find yourself gambling beyond your means or chasing losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
All gambling services in the UK are restricted to individuals aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, or under the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction, you must not use any betting site. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement before placing any bets.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from friends, family, or partners
- Loss of control: Unable to stick to betting limits you've set for yourself
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, study, family, or relationships
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking out loans or using credit to fund gambling activity
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Escalating stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same level of excitement
- Lying about gambling: Being dishonest with others about time spent or money wagered
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling with essential money: Using rent, bills, or grocery money for betting
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable UK betting sites provide tools to help you gamble responsibly. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose in a set timeframe
- Session Reminders: Receive notifications about how long you've been gambling
- Reality Checks: Pop-up reminders to assess your gambling behaviour during play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block yourself from accessing betting sites
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period without permanently closing your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide to stop gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activity.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Contact one of these organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counselling and support for problem gamblers. www.gamcare.org.uk | Telephone: 0808 8020 133
- GamStop: National self-exclusion scheme. Register to exclude yourself from all UK-licensed gambling operators. www.gamstop.co.uk
- National Problem Gambling Clinic: Specialist NHS treatment service. www.cnwl.nhs.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support groups across the UK. www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: Free counselling and support. www.gamblinghelponline.org.au | 1800 858 858
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: Resources and support for problem gambling. www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: Helpline and resources. www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-522-4700
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Information and support on problem gambling. www.bzga.de
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available 24/7. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the organisations above. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can regain control of your life.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is just a phone call or click away.