Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At AC Teesside, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Sports betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only – never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in the United Kingdom is strictly reserved for individuals aged 18 years or older. If you are under 18, you must not use betting services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity and age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of the following warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to recover losses by betting more or increasing stake sizes
- Hiding Gambling: Keeping betting activities secret from family or friends
- Loss of Control: Unable to stick to betting limits or stop when you intended to
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, study, family, or personal care
- Borrowing Money: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating Stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back on gambling
- Neglecting Health & Relationships: Withdrawing from friends, family, or hobbies
- Financial Problems: Experiencing debt, missed bills, or financial difficulties related to gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Resources
Most reputable betting operators provide the following responsible gaming tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose during a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been gambling and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an operator's services for a period of your choosing
- Time-Out Breaks: Take a temporary break from gambling without closing your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your betting account if needed
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you need help or support with problem gambling, the following organisations are available:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families
www.gamcare.org.uk
Telephone: 0808 8020 133 (free, confidential, 24/7) - GamStop – The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling in Great Britain
www.gamstop.co.uk
Register to self-exclude from all licensed UK operators simultaneously - Gamblers Anonymous – 12-step support groups across the UK
Telephone: 020 7384 3040
Other Countries
- 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)
www.bzga.de
If You Need Help
Do not hesitate to reach out. Problem gambling is a serious issue, but support and recovery are possible. Whether you're experiencing difficulties yourself or are concerned about someone else, contacting one of the organisations listed above is a positive first step. All helplines are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals.
Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.