Responsible Gambling Guide

Our Commitment to Responsible Gambling

At Tabbar House, we believe that gambling should only ever be a form of entertainment. Whilst we review and recommend non GamStop casinos for British players, we recognise the responsibility that comes with this and take player welfare extremely seriously.

Non GamStop casinos operate outside the UK Gambling Commission’s regulatory framework, which means they are not covered by the GamStop self-exclusion scheme. This places an additional responsibility on both the player and sites like ours to ensure that gambling remains safe, controlled and enjoyable.

We only recommend casinos that offer responsible gambling tools, and we actively encourage every player to set personal limits before they begin playing. If gambling is no longer fun, it is time to stop and seek support.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually and is not always immediately obvious to the person affected. Recognising the early warning signs is the first and most important step towards getting help. If you identify with any of the following behaviours, it may be time to reassess your relationship with gambling.

Behavioural Warning Signs

• Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble in an attempt to win back money you have lost, often increasing your stakes to try to recover more quickly.
• Spending more than you can afford: Using money intended for rent, bills, food or other essentials for gambling.
• Borrowing money to gamble: Taking out loans, using credit, or borrowing from family and friends to fund gambling activity.
• Lying about gambling: Hiding the extent of your gambling from partners, family or friends, or lying about how much time or money you spend.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, neglecting family obligations or withdrawing from social activities because of gambling.
• Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling: Experiencing anxiety, agitation or mood swings when you are unable to gamble.
• Gambling to escape problems: Using gambling as a way to cope with stress, depression, loneliness or other emotional difficulties.
• Increasing stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same level of excitement.
• Unable to stop: Repeatedly failing to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to.
• Preoccupation with gambling: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning the next session or reliving past wins and losses.

Financial Warning Signs

• Unexplained financial difficulties or debt
• Frequently overdrawn bank account
• Missing bill payments or rent
• Selling possessions to fund gambling
• Multiple payday loans or high-interest borrowing
• Secretive about bank statements or financial records

Emotional and Health Warning Signs

• Increased anxiety, depression or stress related to gambling
• Difficulty sleeping or disrupted sleep patterns
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities you previously enjoyed
• Relationship difficulties caused by gambling
• Feelings of guilt, shame or hopelessness after gambling sessions
• Thoughts of self-harm (if you are experiencing these, please call the Samaritans immediately on 116 123)

Self-Help Tools Available at Non GamStop Casinos

Although non GamStop casinos are not bound by UKGC regulations, many reputable offshore operators still provide a range of responsible gambling tools. We actively check for these tools as part of our review process, and they form part of our scoring criteria.

Deposit Limits

Most reputable non GamStop casinos allow you to set daily, weekly or monthly deposit limits. Once set, these limits cannot be increased immediately — typically there is a 24–72 hour cooling-off period before any increase takes effect. Decreasing your limit, however, takes effect immediately. We recommend setting a deposit limit as soon as you create your account.

Loss Limits

Loss limits cap the total amount you can lose within a specified time period. This is different from a deposit limit because it accounts for both deposits and winnings. If you deposit £100, win £50, and then lose £150, a loss limit of £100 would have stopped your play when your net loss reached that threshold.

Wager Limits

Some non GamStop casinos also offer wager limits, which restrict the total amount you can bet (regardless of wins or losses) within a set period. This is a useful tool for controlling your overall gambling activity.

Session Time Limits

Session timers allow you to set a maximum playing time per session. Once the time limit is reached, you will be logged out automatically. This helps prevent the common issue of losing track of time during extended gambling sessions.

Cooling-Off Periods

A cooling-off period temporarily suspends your casino account for a set duration, typically 24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days or 30 days. During this period, you cannot log in, deposit or play. This is useful if you feel you need a short break without permanently closing your account.

Voluntary Self-Exclusion

The most comprehensive tool available, self-exclusion permanently or semi-permanently closes your account. Most non GamStop casinos allow you to self-exclude for periods of 6 months, 1 year or permanently. We cover the self-exclusion process in detail in the section below.

Third-Party Blocking Software

If you need to block access to gambling sites across all your devices — including non GamStop casinos — third-party blocking software provides a powerful layer of protection. These tools work independently of any casino or gambling scheme, blocking thousands of gambling websites at the device or network level.

UK Support Organisations

There are several excellent organisations in the United Kingdom that provide free, confidential support for anyone affected by problem gambling. All of the services listed below are available to anyone, regardless of whether you gamble at UKGC-licensed sites or non GamStop casinos.

Additional Support Services

• Citizens Advice: Free advice on debt management if gambling has caused financial difficulties. Visit citizensadvice.org.uk or call 0800 144 8848.
• StepChange Debt Charity: Free, confidential debt advice for those experiencing financial problems due to gambling. Call 0800 138 1111 or visit stepchange.org.
• Samaritans: If gambling problems are causing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call the Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7) or email jo@samaritans.org.
• Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support groups for problem gamblers based on the 12-step programme. Meetings are held across the UK, both in person and online. Visit gamblersanonymous.org.uk.

How to Self-Exclude at Offshore Casinos

Self-exclusion at non GamStop casinos works differently from the centralised GamStop scheme. Since offshore casinos are not part of the GamStop network, you will need to self-exclude directly with each individual casino where you hold an account.

Step-by-Step Self-Exclusion Process

1. Contact customer support: Reach out to the casino via live chat or email and clearly state that you wish to self-exclude from your account.
2. Specify the exclusion period: Most casinos offer periods of 6 months, 1 year or permanent exclusion. Choose the period that best suits your needs. If in doubt, opt for the longest period available.
3. Request written confirmation: Ask for email confirmation that your account has been closed and that you are unable to reopen it during the exclusion period.
4. Withdraw any remaining balance: Before requesting exclusion, withdraw any funds in your account. Some casinos may freeze your balance during the exclusion process.
5. Install blocking software: Self-exclusion alone may not be sufficient. Install Gamban, GamBlock or BetBlocker to prevent yourself from accessing the site (or creating a new account) during your exclusion period.

Setting Deposit and Loss Limits

Setting clear financial limits before you begin gambling is one of the most effective ways to maintain control. We strongly recommend that every player — regardless of experience level — sets both deposit limits and loss limits before placing their first bet.

How to Set Effective Limits

1. Determine your disposable income: Calculate how much money you have available after all essential expenses (rent, bills, food, savings) are covered. Only ever gamble with money you can genuinely afford to lose.
2. Set a monthly gambling budget: Allocate a fixed percentage of your disposable income to gambling. Most responsible gambling experts recommend no more than 5%–10% of disposable income.
3. Apply limits at the casino: Once you have determined your budget, set the corresponding daily, weekly or monthly deposit limit within the casino’s responsible gambling settings. Most non GamStop casinos on our list offer this feature in the account settings or cashier section.
4. Set a loss limit: Decide in advance the maximum amount you are willing to lose in a single session, day, week or month. When you reach this limit, stop playing — no exceptions.
5. Set a win target: Equally important is setting a target for winnings. If you reach your target, withdraw your profits and stop playing. This prevents the common trap of “giving back” winnings.

Reality Check Tools

Reality checks are pop-up notifications that appear at regular intervals during your gambling session, providing you with key information about your activity. They are designed to break the flow of play and encourage you to make conscious decisions about whether to continue.

What Reality Checks Show

• How long you have been playing in the current session
• Your total deposits during the session
• Your net win or loss for the session
• A reminder that gambling should be fun
• Quick links to responsible gambling tools and support

Setting Up Reality Checks

At non GamStop casinos that offer reality checks, you can typically customise the frequency of notifications — common intervals include every 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes. We recommend setting reality checks to every 30 minutes as a minimum.

Alternative Reality Check Methods

If your chosen casino does not offer built-in reality checks, you can create your own:

• Phone timer: Set a recurring alarm on your phone for every 30 or 60 minutes to remind you to check the time and your balance.
• Browser extension: Tools like StayFocusd or RescueTime can alert you when you have spent a set amount of time on gambling websites.
• Physical reminders: Keep a notepad beside your device and write down your starting balance and each deposit you make. This makes your spending tangible and harder to ignore.

Resources for Family and Friends of Problem Gamblers

Problem gambling does not just affect the individual — it can have a devastating impact on partners, children, parents and close friends. If someone you care about is struggling with gambling, there is support available for you too.

How to Recognise the Problem

You may notice the following signs in a loved one:

• Unexplained financial difficulties, missing money or unexpected debt
• Secretive behaviour, especially around phone or computer use
• Mood swings, irritability or withdrawal from family activities
• Lying about whereabouts or spending habits
• Borrowing money frequently with vague explanations
• Neglecting work, household responsibilities or childcare
• Changes in sleeping patterns or appetite

How to Help

• Approach with empathy: Choose a calm moment to express your concerns without judgement. Use “I” statements (“I’m worried about...”) rather than accusations.
• Listen without lecturing: Allow them to share their experience at their own pace. Problem gambling often carries deep shame, and feeling judged can push someone further into secrecy.
• Encourage professional help: Suggest calling the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) or visiting GamCare together. Offer to attend an appointment if they would find that helpful.
• Protect your finances: If a partner’s gambling is affecting shared finances, take steps to protect joint accounts and household funds. Seek advice from Citizens Advice or StepChange.
• Look after yourself: Supporting someone with a gambling problem can be emotionally exhausting. Seek your own support through GamCare’s helpline (which also supports affected others) or GamAnon, the support group for families of problem gamblers.

Support Services for Affected Others

• GamCare Helpline: 0808 8020 133 — trained advisers are available to support family and friends as well as gamblers themselves.
• GamAnon: Support groups specifically for the partners, family and friends of problem gamblers. Visit gamanon.org.uk.
• Gambling Therapy: Online support for affected others, including live chat and email. Visit gamblingtherapy.org.