Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Otter Pool Barn, we believe gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Betting should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself gambling to make money or recover losses, it's time to seek help.
We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting those who may be struggling with problem gambling.
Age Verification
All gambling operators in the UK must ensure that only individuals aged 18 years or over can access betting services. If you are under 18, you are legally prohibited from gambling in the United Kingdom.
It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement before placing any bets. If you are unsure about your eligibility, please consult the relevant gambling regulations in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour? If so, problem gambling may be affecting your life.
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Experiencing feelings of guilt or shame about your gambling
- Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Being unable to stop or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when unable to gamble
- Risking important relationships, jobs, or opportunities because of gambling
If you recognise any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable betting operators provide tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account to prevent access to betting services
- Account Restrictions: Disable certain betting features or reduce your betting limits
We encourage you to use these tools proactively. Setting limits before you start gambling can help you maintain control and enjoy betting responsibly.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you are struggling with problem gambling, a range of free, confidential support services are available:
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families
www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) - GamStop: National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to opt out of all online gambling operators
www.gamstop.co.uk - National Problem Gambling Clinic: NHS-funded specialist treatment
Based in London with remote support available
International Support Services
- 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)
Telephone Counselling: 0800 137 27 00 (free and anonymous)
All of these organisations offer free, confidential support and can help you or a loved one address problem gambling.
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that can have significant impacts on your mental health, finances, and relationships. However, help is available, and recovery is possible.
If you are struggling with gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. They are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential, non-judgmental support.
Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is no shame in asking for support.
Our Commitment
Otter Pool Barn is committed to promoting responsible gambling. We support all players in making informed decisions about their gambling activities and encourage the use of available safety tools and support services.
For more information about responsible gambling practices, please visit the resources listed above or contact the support organisations directly.