Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Financial Newz, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money or solve financial problems. It carries real risks, and it's important to understand and manage those risks.
We encourage all players to gamble within their means and to seek help immediately if they believe their gambling has become problematic.
Age Verification
In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. This is a legal requirement and applies to all forms of betting, including online betting sites like Betfred.
All operators featured on Financial Newz are licensed to verify player age and identity. If you are under 18, we urge you not to gamble. If you are aware of anyone underage gambling, please report it to the relevant operator or to the GamCare helpline.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Below are common warning signs. If you recognise any of these in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to try to win back money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling secret from family, friends, or healthcare providers
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems
- Financial problems: Borrowing money, using credit cards, or going into debt to fund gambling
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits or money
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling irritable or anxious when not gambling
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Responsible gambling operators provide tools to help you stay in control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a given time period
- Stake Limits: Restrict the amount you can wager per bet
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logout after a certain period of play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gambling and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a betting site for a set period (minimum 6 months) or permanently. For multi-operator self-exclusion, use GamStop (see below)
All operators featured on Financial Newz are required by UK gambling law to provide these tools. We recommend using them as part of a responsible gambling strategy.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you are struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support are available. Below are trusted organisations appropriate for your location:
United Kingdom
- GamCare
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7)
A leading provider of problem gambling counselling and support services in the UK. Offers counselling, support groups, and online resources. - GamStop
The UK's national multi-operator self-exclusion scheme. Register to self-exclude from all licensed UK online gambling operators simultaneously for a period of 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. - Gambling Commission
The regulator of gambling in Great Britain. Provides information on licensed operators and complaint procedures.
Other Countries
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – Confidential counselling and support
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – Resources and support services
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 for immediate support
- Register with GamStop to self-exclude from all UK licensed operators
- Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional
- Visit your GP – problem gambling is treatable, and medical professionals can help
You are not alone. Help is available, and it's never too late to seek it.