Responsible gambling

Our commitment to responsible gambling

We are committed to operating our weekly lottery in a socially responsible way. We want it to be fun to play, while raising charity funds, but not in a way that is detrimental to the vulnerable, such as low income groups or those under the age of 18.

Whilst the majority of people do gamble within their means, for some gambling can become a problem. It may help you to keep control to remember the following:

• Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way of making money
• Avoid chasing losses
• Only gamble what you can afford to lose
• Keep track of the time and amount you spend gambling

If you want to have a break from gambling you can use our self-exclusion option by writing to us at our Lottery Administration Office with your name, address and membership number(s) to, The Woods Group, Bumpers Way, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 6NG. We will then close your account(s) for a minimum period of six months, during which time it will not be possible for the account(s) to be re-opened for any reason. (The Woods Group operate the lottery on our behalf as External Lottery Managers)

• If you need to talk to someone about problem gambling then contact GamCare.
• GamCare is a registered charity that provides confidential telephone support and counselling to anyone who is affected by problem gambling. GamCare can be contacted on 0845 6000 133 (local rate from UK).

Problem gambling

If you are concerned that gambling may have taken over your (or someone else's) life then the following questions may help you find out:

• Do you stay away from work, college or school to gamble?
• Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
• When gambling and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and need to gamble again as soon as possible?
• Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even the fare home or the cost of a cup of tea?
• Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time you have spent gambling?
• Have others ever criticised your gambling?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends or hobbies?
• After losing, do you feel you must try and win back your losses as soon as possible?
• Do arguments, frustrations or disappointments make you want to gamble?
• Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gambling?

The more you answer 'yes' to these questions, the more likely you are to have a serious gambling problem. To speak to someone about this contact the GamCare confidential helpline on 0808 802 0133 or visit their website gamcare.org.uk for further information.

Useful links

• GamCare
• Gamblers Anonymous
• National Debt Line
• Financial Conduct Authority
• Citizens Advice
• Gambling Commission