Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Exmouth Christmas Day Swim, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Betting and casino games should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses by gambling more than you intended.

Age Verification

All gambling in the UK is strictly regulated and only available to individuals aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you must not use any betting sites or place wagers. Operators featured on this website are required by UK law to verify the age of all users before allowing them to gamble.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following warning signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Spending more time gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding or lying about your gambling activities to family or friends
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Borrowing money to fund your gambling
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable betting sites offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose over a set period
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting sites to take a break from gambling
• Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely

All reputable UK operators must provide these tools. Use them proactively to manage your gambling.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you're struggling with gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free counselling, support, and information
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Telephone: 0808 8020 133 (24/7, free)
• GamStop – National Self-Exclusion Scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  Self-exclude from all licensed UK operators for up to 5 years
• Gamblers Anonymous
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
  Mutual support meetings and peer support

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
• Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – www.bzga.de

Need Help?

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help—gambling addiction is treatable, and support services are confidential and free.

Contact GamCare on 0808 8020 133 (24/7) or visit www.gamcare.org.uk

Your wellbeing is our priority. Gamble responsibly and within your means.