Responsible Gambling

Recognise When Gambling Is Causing Harm

GamblingCare's guide to problem gambling signs identifies behaviours that are reasons to seek advice. Examples include:

• Trying to recover losses by betting more often or increasing the stake.
• Finding it difficult to stop after deciding to cut down.
• Hiding how much time or money you spend gambling.
• Using gambling to escape stress or low mood.
• Gambling affecting relationships, work, study or household finances.

These signs are prompts to talk to a support service, not a diagnosis. You do not need to recognise every example before asking for help.

Protect Essential Spending and Time

Money needed for rent, food, bills and other essentials should not be used for gambling. Trying to win back a loss can lead to further losses. GamblingCare's practical guidance on limits and breaks recommends setting limits on both money and time and stopping when those limits are reached.

Account limits can add a boundary, but they do not make gambling risk-free. If you find yourself raising limits, borrowing to continue or repeatedly returning after deciding to stop, speak to the helpline about stronger barriers and support. Choosing not to gamble is always an option.

Use Self-Exclusion to Restrict Access

Self-exclusion is a request for a gambling operator to prevent access to its services for a specified period. It is different from simply logging out or deleting an app. Depending on the operator, the request may be available through account settings, email, telephone or live chat.

Ask for confirmation of the brands and products covered, the duration and what happens when the period ends. Do not assume a request to one operator covers every account you hold. GamblingCare explains the different exclusion options and how to request them. Do not open another account to get around an exclusion.

Add Bank and Device Blocking Tools

A bank gambling block prevents transactions identified as gambling-related. Availability and activation depend on your provider; options may include a banking app, customer support or a branch. GamblingCare's bank blocking information explains these controls and links to provider guidance.

A card block should not be treated as a block on every possible way of moving money. Ask the bank which cards and transactions it covers. GamblingCare recommends combining bank controls with self-exclusion and gambling-blocking software, rather than relying on a single tool. A support adviser can help you work out which barriers are relevant to your circumstances.

Help for Family and Friends

You can seek support for the effect someone else's gambling is having on you. GamblingCare works with Family Resource Centres around Ireland and publishes a directory of local family support services. The directory includes counselling and community support for affected individuals, families and friends.

The helpline above also supports family members. You can start by describing your own concerns and asking what help is available for you, even if you are unsure how to raise the subject with the person who gambles.