Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
At Dawlish Arts Festival, we believe that betting and casino gaming should only ever be enjoyed as a form of entertainment. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
All gambling in the UK is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling, including online betting and casino games. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity at any time.
It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not use any gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you try to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or difficult emotions
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling more frequently or for longer durations over time
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features
Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you must stop gambling
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during gameplay to remind you how long you've been gambling and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a betting site, preventing access to your account
- Time Limits: Set session duration limits to control how long you gamble at one time
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Take advantage of these tools. They are designed for your protection and are available at no cost.
Support & Help Organizations
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
United Kingdom
-
GamCare — Free support, information and counselling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7) -
GamStop — National gambling self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Self-exclude from all UKGC-licensed operators -
Gamblers Anonymous — Support meetings and peer assistance
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk -
Samaritans — Emotional support for anyone in distress
Helpline: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
International Support
- 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) — Telefonberatung: 0800 1 372 374 (kostenlos, täglich)
All of these services are confidential, free to use, and staffed by trained professionals.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. You are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (UK)
- Register with GamStop for self-exclusion
- Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional
- Visit the support organisation websites above for more resources
Help is available 24/7. Please reach out today if you need it.