Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

At earthlivingfestival.co.uk, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money or solve financial problems. Betting sites and casino games are designed with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the operator over time.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses or bet more than you planned.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in the United Kingdom. This is a legal requirement and a crucial safeguard for vulnerable individuals.

All licensed betting operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to open an account and place bets.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:

• Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Hiding gambling activity from friends, family, or partners
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Experiencing mood swings or anxiety related to gambling outcomes
• Feeling unable to stop or reduce gambling activity
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Lying about the extent of your gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in your own behaviour, please reach out for support immediately.

Self-Help Tools Available

Most regulated betting operators offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose over a specific period
• Stake Limits: Restrict the maximum bet size per wager
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account and block access to the betting site
• Time-Outs: Take a break from gambling for a set period (days, weeks, or months)

Use these tools proactively to manage your gambling responsibly.

Support Organisations

If you're struggling with gambling, confidential help and support is available from the following organisations:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free, confidential support and counselling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential)
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  Self-exclude from all UK-licensed online gambling operators
• Gamblers Anonymous – Support group meetings across the UK
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk

Other Countries

• 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)
  www.bzga.de

If You Need Help, Seek It Now

Problem gambling can have serious consequences for your mental health, finances, relationships, and overall wellbeing. You are not alone, and help is available.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organisations listed above. They offer free, confidential assistance with no judgment.

Recovery is possible, and support services are there to help you take back control.