We built Spellwin for entertainment, and we want it to stay that way. This page explains the control tools we offer, the warning signs worth watching for, and where to get help in the UK if gambling ever stops being enjoyable.
Why responsible gambling matters
Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. When it works, it's a choice you make with money you can afford to lose, and it fits into your life without crowding out the things that matter. When it doesn't, it can escalate quickly – and recognising that early makes all the difference.
Signs gambling is getting out of hand
The shift from entertainment to problem happens gradually, but certain behaviours are reliable warning signs:
- Spending more than you planned, or chasing losses in a single session
- Lying to friends or family about how much you spend or how often you play
- Borrowing money to gamble, or using money set aside for bills
- Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut back
- Gambling to escape stress, boredom or difficult feelings
- Neglecting work, relationships or responsibilities because of gambling
If any of these sound familiar, it's worth taking a step back and asking for help. You're not alone, and support is available.
Questions worth asking yourself
A short self-check can clarify whether your gambling is still under control. Answer honestly:
- Do you ever gamble with money you can't afford to lose?
- Have you lied to cover up how much you gamble?
- Do you feel the need to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement?
- Have you tried to cut back and found you couldn't?
- Do you gamble to escape problems or relieve feelings of guilt, anxiety or depression?
- After losing, do you return the next day to try to win it back?
- Has gambling caused problems in your relationships, work or finances?
If you answered yes to several of these, consider reaching out to one of the UK support services below. They're free, confidential, and staffed by people who understand what you're going through.
Our control tools
We offer five types of limit, each designed to help you stay in control of how much you deposit, lose, wager, or how long you play. All of them are set by contacting our support team.
Deposit limit
Deposit limits restrict the maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen period: 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes, or daily, weekly or monthly windows. Once set, you won't be able to add more funds until the period resets. Request one via live chat or by emailing [email protected].
Loss limit
Loss limits cap how much you can lose over the same time frames – 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes, or daily, weekly or monthly. The limit tracks your net losses, not your wagers. Request it through live chat or [email protected].
Wager limit
Wager limits restrict the cumulative amount you can bet in a given period, regardless of whether you win or lose. The same time options apply: 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes, or daily, weekly or monthly. Contact live chat or [email protected] to set one.
Session limit
Session limits set a maximum duration for continuous play – 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes, or daily, weekly or monthly. Once the timer runs out, you'll be logged out. Reach our team via live chat or [email protected].
Self-exclusion
Self-exclusion blocks your access to our site for a minimum of 6 months, extendable up to 5 years. During this period you won't be able to log in, deposit or play. To activate it, email [email protected] from the address registered to your account. This is the most comprehensive tool we offer, and it's there when you need a complete break.
Practical limits that work
Tools are only useful if you use them. Here are five approaches that help players stay in control:
- Set a budget before you start – decide how much you can afford to lose, and stop when you reach it. Don't chase losses.
- Use a separate account or payment method – keep your gambling funds separate from your household money, so you always know what's at stake.
- Take regular breaks – set an alarm for every 30 or 60 minutes. Step away, stretch, check in with yourself.
- Avoid gambling when you're stressed or upset – it's not a coping mechanism, and playing to escape difficult feelings usually makes them worse.
- Track your spending – keep a simple log of deposits and withdrawals. If the pattern worries you, it's time to set a limit or take a break.
Where to get help in the UK
If gambling is affecting your life, free and confidential support is available. These organisations are staffed by trained counsellors who understand problem gambling and can help you take the next step.
GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also visit gamcare.org.uk for live chat, forums and self-assessment tools.
BeGambleAware offers practical advice, treatment referrals and a directory of support services across the UK. Visit begambleaware.org for information and resources.
GamStop is a free national self-exclusion scheme that blocks access to all UK-licensed gambling sites. Register once at gamstop.co.uk and you'll be excluded across the board for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
Gordon Moody provides residential treatment programmes and online support for people with severe gambling problems. Learn more at gordonmoody.org.uk.
Blocking software
If you want to block gambling sites at the device level, two tools can help. Gamban (gamban.com) is a paid app that blocks tens of thousands of gambling sites across all your devices. BetBlocker (betblocker.org) is free and works on desktop, mobile and tablet. Both run in the background and can't be easily bypassed once installed.
Protecting minors
Our site is restricted to players aged 18 and over (18+). If you share a device with someone under 18, consider installing parental-control software such as Net Nanny or Qustodio. These tools let you block gambling sites at the household level, and they're straightforward to set up.
Questions about our responsible-gambling tools? Email us at [email protected] – we're here to help.
Access to this site is restricted to persons aged 18 and over (18+). Gambling should be entertainment, not a burden. For free, confidential support, visit BeGambleAware.org.