Responsible Gambling 🛡️
The Pools operates under licence 48272 issued by the UK Gambling Commission, which mandates player protection measures including deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks. Responsible gambling means staying in control of your time and money, understanding that the house edge always exists, and recognising when play stops being fun.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognising the early signs can prevent serious harm. Common warning signs include:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
- Chasing losses by placing larger bets to win back money
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed about gambling
- Lying to loved ones about how much you gamble
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
If you recognise any of these patterns in your own behaviour, reach out for support immediately. Help is available and confidential.
Self-Exclusion and GAMSTOP
GAMSTOP is a free United Kingdom self-exclusion scheme that blocks access to all UKGC-licensed operators, including The Pools. You can exclude yourself for six months, one year, or five years by registering at gamstop.co.uk. Once registered, you cannot reverse the decision during the exclusion period.
The Pools also offers direct self-exclusion tools within your account settings. You can set cooling-off periods from 24 hours to six weeks, or request permanent account closure.
Deposit Limits and Reality Checks
Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to control spending. The minimum deposit at The Pools is £5, but you can set your personal limit lower than what you can afford to ensure gambling remains entertainment. Reality checks remind you how long you have been playing, prompting regular breaks.
United Kingdom Gambling Support Organisations
Real help is available right now through these trusted organisations:
- BeGambleAware: 0808 8020 133 (free helpline, open daily)
- GamCare: 0808 8020 133 (free support and counselling)
- Gamblers Anonymous: gamanon.org.uk (peer support meetings across the UK)
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (confidential advice)
How to Get Help
If gambling is causing harm, take action today. Contact any helpline above for confidential advice, or speak to your GP who can refer you to specialist NHS services. Tell someone you trust about your concerns. Block gambling sites using software like Gamban or set up banking blocks with your bank.
Remember, problem gambling affects people from all backgrounds. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support services are free, confidential, and staffed by professionals who understand what you are going through.
You must be 18+ to gamble in the United Kingdom. The Pools uses SSL/TLS 256-bit encryption to protect your data and processes withdrawals within 24-48h when you choose to stop playing.
