Responsible Gambling
Paddock Punter's commitment to safe and responsible betting
Horse racing betting should always be fun. At Paddock Punter, our tips are provided for entertainment purposes only. We never encourage betting more than you can afford to lose. If gambling stops being enjoyable, or if you're concerned about your or someone else's gambling, please use the resources on this page.
Keeping Gambling Under Control
Set a Budget
Only ever bet money you can afford to lose. Set a weekly or monthly limit before you start and stick to it.
Set Time Limits
Use the session timer tools offered by all UK bookmakers to limit how long you spend betting.
Never Chase Losses
Accept that losses are part of betting. Never increase your stakes to try to win back what you've lost.
Take Breaks
Step away regularly. All UK-licensed sites offer cooling-off periods and temporary self-exclusion options.
Don't Borrow to Bet
Never borrow money to fund gambling. If you find yourself doing this, please seek help immediately.
Keep It Balanced
Gambling should be one leisure activity among many, not your primary source of entertainment or income.
Self-Exclusion
If you feel you need a break from gambling, you can self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling sites in one step using GamStop. Registration is free and takes a few minutes.
Self-Exclude via GamStop →You can also self-exclude directly with individual bookmakers through your account settings.
Get Help & Support
BeGambleAware
The leading charity for responsible gambling in Great Britain. Free, confidential information and advice, 24/7.
Helpline: 0808 8020 133
GamCare
Provides information, advice, support, and counselling for anyone affected by gambling harms. Free National Helpline.
Helpline: 0808 8020 133
GamStop
The UK's free national online self-exclusion scheme. Register to block access to all UK-licensed gambling websites and apps.
Gambling Therapy
Free practical advice and emotional support from specialists in online and telephone support for problem gamblers.
Gamblers Anonymous
A fellowship of men and women who share their experience to help each other recover from gambling problems. Free meetings nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is responsible gambling?▼
Responsible gambling means betting within your means for entertainment, setting limits, and never chasing losses. It involves understanding the risks, keeping gambling fun, and seeking help if it becomes a problem.
How can I self-exclude from betting sites?▼
GamStop is the UK's national self-exclusion scheme. Registering at gamstop.co.uk will block you from all UK-licensed online gambling sites for a period you choose (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years).
What tools do bookmakers offer to help me gamble responsibly?▼
All UK-licensed bookmakers must offer deposit limits, loss limits, session time limits, cooling-off periods, and self-exclusion. These can usually be found in your account settings.
How do I know if gambling is becoming a problem?▼
Warning signs include: gambling with money you can't afford to lose, chasing losses, lying about how much you gamble, borrowing money to gamble, and gambling affecting your relationships or work.
Where can I get free help with problem gambling?▼
Free support is available from GamCare (0808 8020 133), Gambling Therapy (online support), and the National Gambling Helpline. All services are confidential.
Paddock Punter's content is intended for adults aged 18 and over. Betting tips are published for entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Please familiarise yourself with the Paddock Punter Disclaimer and gamble responsibly.