Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At avsmith.co.uk, we believe that gambling should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment. It is important to understand that casino games and betting are designed for enjoyment and should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
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 designed to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and verify the age of all users. If you are under 18, please do not use our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be alert to the following warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Continuing to gamble to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding Your Gambling: Keeping gambling activities secret from family or friends
- Increasing Stakes: Needing to bet more money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing to Gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop or limit your gambling despite wanting to
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Financial Strain: Experiencing money problems or debt as a result of gambling
- Relationship Conflicts: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features
Most reputable operators offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a specific timeframe
- Time-Out (Reality Checks): Receive reminders during your gaming session about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period, ranging from days to years
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling completely
We encourage you to use these tools proactively. Speak to your operator's customer support team to activate any of these features on your account.
Support & Help Resources
If you are struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free confidential support and counselling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) - GamStop – National Self-Exclusion Scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Self-exclude from all UK-licensed operators - Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings
Website: 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
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 - Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Website: www.bzga.de
All of these organisations offer confidential support and are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please do not suffer in silence. Contact one of the organisations listed above immediately. They provide free, confidential support and can help you regain control.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional advisors are available to assist you at any time.