Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be For Entertainment
At Hounslow Seniors Trust, we believe that bingo and online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Please play responsibly and only with money 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, including bingo. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and comply with all UK Gambling Commission regulations. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Gambling more frequently or with larger amounts than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Feeling anxious or stressed when not gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. These may include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
We encourage you to use these tools to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted support organizations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free, confidential support for problem gamblers and their families
www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) - GamStop – National Self-Exclusion Scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Register to self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling operators at once - Gamblers Anonymous – Support groups and peer counselling
Phone: 0330 094 0322
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)
Telephone Counselling: 0800-1 372 700 (free and anonymous)
If You Need Help
Please do not hesitate to reach out. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available 24/7. Whether you are concerned about your own gambling or that of someone close to you, the organizations listed above offer free, confidential advice and assistance.
Your health and wellbeing are important. Taking action is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact one of our recommended support services today.