Theme of the Month - Online Gambling Awareness
Theme of the Month: Online Gambling Awareness
What is online gambling?
Online gambling is any form of gambling where money or something of value is risked through the internet. This can include online casinos, bingo, sports betting, lotteries and other gambling-style games accessed through a computer, tablet or mobile phone.
Quick summary
Online gambling involves risking money or something of value on an uncertain outcome for the chance to win a prize. Understanding how gambling works, recognising potential risks and knowing where to find support can help people make informed and responsible decisions.
What makes something gambling?
Gambling generally involves three key elements:
💷 A stake
A stake is the money or something of value that a person risks when placing a bet.
🎲 An element of chance
The outcome is uncertain. Some forms of gambling may involve knowledge or decision-making, but chance still plays a role in whether someone wins or loses.
🏆 A prize
A prize is the money or other reward that may be won if the outcome is successful.
Why is online gambling awareness important?
Because gambling can be accessed online, it may not always feel the same as physically handing over money. Building awareness can help people understand what gambling involves, recognise potential risks and make more informed choices.
It is also important to remember that gambling should never be viewed as a guaranteed way to make money.
Recognising when gambling may be becoming a problem
Some signs that gambling may be having a negative impact can include:
Spending more money or time gambling than intended
Trying to win back money that has already been lost
Borrowing money or struggling financially because of gambling
Finding it difficult to stop or cut down
Hiding gambling from friends, family or others
Gambling affecting work, education, relationships or wellbeing
Experiencing difficulties with gambling is nothing to be ashamed of, and support is available.
Where to find help and support
If you are concerned about your own gambling, or somebody else's, you do not have to deal with it alone.
GambleAware provides information about gambling harms and routes to support.
GamCare provides free information and support for people affected by gambling, including the National Gambling Helpline.
GAMSTOP is a free self-exclusion service that allows people to restrict their access to gambling websites and apps operated by companies licensed in Great Britain.
You can also speak to an appropriate member of staff or support contact within your organisation if gambling is affecting your wellbeing, finances or learning.
Online Gambling Awareness: Theme of the Month
Throughout this Theme of the Month, we are raising awareness of online gambling, helping people understand the risks, encouraging informed and responsible choices, and highlighting where support is available.
The key message is simple: understand the risks, know your limits and seek support if gambling is beginning to have a negative impact.