Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Midlands Climbing Festival, we believe that casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to approach gaming with a healthy mindset and set realistic expectations about outcomes.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. If you feel your gambling is becoming a concern, support is available.
Age Verification
In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. This is a legal requirement that all operators must enforce strictly.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access casino services. If you have concerns about a minor's gambling activity, contact the appropriate support services immediately.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Lying about the extent of your gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Neglecting work, education, relationships, or hobbies due to gambling
- Attempting unsuccessfully to reduce or quit gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Responsible operators provide tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during play reminding you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling services across multiple operators
- Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits to encourage breaks from play
Always use these tools proactively. Speak with your casino operator about the controls available to you.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organisations provide confidential support:
- GamCare (UK): Free counselling and support services. www.gamcare.org.uk or call 0808 8020 133
- GamStop (UK): National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to exclude yourself from all licensed online gambling operators. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous (UK): Support meetings across the UK. www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org or call 1-800-522-4700
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
Take Action
If you believe you have a gambling problem, help is available right now. Please reach out to one of the organisations listed above. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Your wellbeing is important. Taking action today can make a real difference.