Responsible Gaming

Introduction

At Inverness Chamber Music, we believe that gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting should be fun and exciting, but it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means.

Age Verification

All betting sites in the UK are strictly regulated to ensure that only those aged 18 years or over can participate in gambling activities. If you are under 18, you must not use any betting services. It is illegal to gamble if you are underage, and operators have a legal duty to verify your age before allowing you to place bets.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of the following warning signs:

• Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
• Increasing stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to get the same thrill
• Mood swings: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
• Financial problems: Borrowing money to fund gambling or experiencing debt
• Loss of control: Being unable to stick to self-imposed limits
• Relationship strain: Arguments with family or friends about gambling habits

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools

Responsible betting operators provide tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen time period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been gambling
• Time-Out: Take a break from betting for a specified period (days or weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from all UK-licensed betting sites for a set period or permanently

Use these tools to maintain control over your gambling and ensure it remains enjoyable.

Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available:

United Kingdom

• GamCare: Free confidential support and counselling for problem gamblers and their families. www.gamcare.org.uk | Helpline: 0808 8020 133
• GamStop: The National Self-Exclusion Scheme allowing you to self-exclude from all UK-licensed gambling operators. www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gamblers Anonymous: Free peer support meetings for people affected by problem gambling. Available nationwide across the UK.

International Support

• 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
• Germany - Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung: Information and support for problem gambling prevention.

Call to Action

If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help today. There is no shame in asking for support. The organizations listed above are confidential, non-judgmental, and here to help you regain control.

Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to get help.