Responsible Gaming at Betahoy

Gambling involves a risk of financial loss on every bet or spin. It should be treated as a form of entertainment rather than a method of earning money. Responsible gaming principles help players stay in control of their time and money while playing.

• Personal limits: decide on a deposit, loss or time limit before starting a session and keep to it;
• Affordable budget: wager only money that can be afforded, never funds needed for essential expenses;
• Loss acceptance: treat losses as part of the game rather than increasing stakes to win money back;
• Regular breaks: step away from gambling activity at intervals to maintain a clear perspective;
• Balanced lifestyle: keep gambling as one activity among many, alongside work, family and hobbies;
• Enjoyment check: end a session once gambling stops feeling enjoyable rather than continuing out of habit.

Gambling addiction can develop gradually, often without an obvious starting point. Early recognition of these signs allows players to take action before the situation becomes serious. Problem gambling is a recognised condition that may require professional support to resolve.

• Increased spending: wagering more money than originally planned on a regular basis;
• Loss of time awareness: losing track of time while gambling and playing for longer than intended;
• Chasing losses: an attempt to win back money already lost by increasing bets or continuing to play;
• Use of borrowed money: funding gambling with loans, credit or money meant for other purposes;
• Secrecy around gambling: concealing the frequency or amount of gambling from family or friends;
• Neglected responsibilities: missed work, study or family commitments because of gambling;
• Gambling as an escape: using gambling as a way to cope with stress, anxiety or difficult emotions;
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop: repeated efforts to reduce or quit gambling without success;
• Financial strain: falling behind on bills or facing debt as a direct result of gambling;
• Irritability without gambling: restlessness or a short temper when unable to play.

Players can take practical steps to maintain control over their betting and lower the risk of developing problematic habits. Betahoy recommends the following measures:

• Deposit limit: set a cap on how much money can be added to the account within a day, week or month;
• Self-exclusion: close the account for a set period or permanently if betting feels difficult to control;
• Activity record: keep track of time spent and amounts wagered to stay aware of patterns;
• Clear judgement: avoid betting under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as self-control can be affected;
• Support network: reach out to a trusted friend, family member or support service when betting feels overwhelming.

People experiencing gambling addiction or struggling to control their gambling can access confidential support through specialised organisations. The following services are available to players in the United Kingdom:

• GamCare: provides free information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling harm, including a helpline and online chat, available at www.gamcare.org.uk.
• BeGambleAware: offers free, confidential advice and support, along with a directory of treatment providers across the country, available at www.begambleaware.org.
• National Gambling Helpline: a free, confidential helpline operated by GamCare, available 24 hours a day by calling 0808 8020 133.
• GamStop: a free self-exclusion scheme that restricts access to gambling websites licensed in the United Kingdom, available at www.gamstop.co.uk.
• Gamblers Anonymous UK: a peer support fellowship offering local meetings for people seeking to stop gambling, available at www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk.

Players experiencing difficulty controlling their gambling can contact Betahoy support for assistance at any time. Support can be reached through the following channels:

• Live chat: available directly on the website or Betahoy app for immediate assistance;
• Email support: players can send enquiries to the support address listed on the website;
• Help centre: a dedicated section on the website containing guidance on account settings and responsible gaming tools.