Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Beacon Stroud, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites featured on our platform are designed for recreational enjoyment. If you find yourself gambling to make money or to recover losses, it may be time to seek help.
Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Gambling is only legal for individuals aged 18 years and over in the United Kingdom. All betting sites listed on beaconstroud.com require age verification before you can create an account or place bets.
If you are under 18, or if you are in a jurisdiction where gambling is prohibited, please do not attempt to access gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of the following warning signs in your gambling behaviour?
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from friends or family
- Increasing stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Gambling with borrowed money: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed funds to gamble
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or spending more money than intended
- Mood changes: Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or depression when not gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back: Trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Financial difficulties: Struggling with bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling
If you recognise several of these signs, consider reaching out to a support organisation.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable betting sites offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to prevent prolonged gambling sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications that remind you how long you've been gambling
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you need a break from gambling
- Account Closure: Request permanent account deletion if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools to set boundaries that work for you. Remember: it's never too late to take control.
Support Organisations and Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organisations in your region and beyond:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free, confidential support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk
Exclude yourself from all UK-licensed online gambling operators - Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings across the UK
www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
International Resources
- 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
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 - Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Helpline: 0800 1 37 27 00 (free, confidential)
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a real issue, but recovery is possible with support. You don't have to face it alone.
If gambling is affecting your life or finances:
- Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 for immediate support
- Register with GamStop to self-exclude from all UK-licensed online gambling sites
- Speak to your GP or a mental health professional
- Tell a trusted friend or family member
Help is available, and seeking it is a sign of strength, not weakness.