Responsible Gambling

• Set a loss limit before you play — and stick to it

• Never gamble with money set aside for bills, rent, or food

• Don't gamble when emotionally distressed, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol

• Treat gambling as entertainment, not a source of income

• Take regular breaks during gambling sessions

You may have a problem if you:

• Bet more than you can afford to lose

• Borrow money to fund gambling

• Lie to family or friends about your gambling

• Feel anxious or irritable when not gambling

• Chase losses by betting more to try to win back what you've lost

• Neglect work, family, or personal health because of gambling

• Think about gambling constantly, even away from platforms

Recognising these signs is the first step. Help is available and free of charge.

Self-exclusion is a legislated programme under the National Gambling Act 7 of 2004. It allows you to formally exclude yourself from all licensed gambling activities for a minimum of 6 months.

• Call the NRGP: 0800 006 008 (toll-free, 24/7)

• Email: [email protected]

• Contact each licensed operator directly to be added to their exclusion register

• Contact your provincial gambling board (e.g. GGB, WCGRB) to be added to the provincial register

See our dedicated self-exclusion guide for the complete step-by-step process.

All provincially licensed SA operators are expected to offer:

• Deposit limits: set a daily, weekly, or monthly cap

• Session time limits: receive alerts or be logged out after a set period

• Reality check: periodic reminders of time played and amount wagered

• Individual self-exclusion: request directly from the operator in addition to the NRGP register

• Transaction history: access all your deposits, withdrawals, and bet history

Activate these tools in the responsible gambling settings section of your account.

• National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP): 0800 006 008 (toll-free, 24/7) — responsiblegambling.org.za

• Gamblers Anonymous South Africa: gamblersanonymous.org.za

• SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): 0800 21 22 23 — sadag.org

• Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322 — lifelinesa.co.za

• GamCare (international): gamcare.org.uk

If you are concerned about someone else's gambling:

• Approach the conversation with empathy, without ultimatums

• Share information about available support resources

• Offer to accompany them when seeking help

• Don't lend money for gambling purposes

• Take care of your own mental health — support groups exist for family members of problem gamblers