Responsible Gambling
At Chicken Road UK, we believe that gambling should always remain an enjoyable and entertaining activity. We are committed to promoting responsible gambling and providing our users with the information and tools they need to stay in control. This page outlines the principles of responsible gambling, the warning signs of problem gambling, and the support resources available to you.
Our Commitment to Responsible Gambling
We take our responsibility seriously. Chicken Road UK is dedicated to ensuring that our platform encourages a safe and fair gambling environment. We support the regulatory framework established by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) under the Gambling Act 2005, which places player protection at the heart of all gambling activities in Great Britain.
We do not target underage individuals, and all gambling-related content on this site is intended exclusively for persons aged 18 and over. We actively promote awareness of responsible gambling practices and provide clear pathways to professional help for anyone who may need it.
Recognising the Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually and may be difficult to recognise. It is important to be honest with yourself about your gambling habits. Consider the following warning signs:
- Spending more money or time on gambling than you can afford
- Chasing losses by continuing to gamble in an attempt to recover money already lost
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, studies, family, or personal obligations due to gambling
- Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Lying to family members, friends, or others about the extent of your gambling
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, or depression
- Repeatedly unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, we urge you to seek help without delay.
Self-Exclusion Tools
Self-exclusion is one of the most effective measures available to help you regain control over your gambling. In the United Kingdom, GamStop provides a free national self-exclusion scheme that allows you to restrict your access to all online gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain.
When you register with GamStop, you can choose to self-exclude for a minimum period of six months, one year, or five years. During this period, you will be prevented from using gambling websites and receiving direct marketing materials from gambling operators. To register, visit gamstop.co.uk.
Additionally, many individual operators offer their own self-exclusion and cooling-off features. We encourage you to make use of these tools if you feel that your gambling is becoming difficult to manage.
Setting Limits
One of the best ways to gamble responsibly is to set clear limits before you begin. Consider the following practical strategies:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount that you are willing to deposit over a given period (daily, weekly, or monthly). Many UKGC-licensed operators allow you to configure these limits within your account settings.
- Loss Limits: Decide in advance the maximum amount you are prepared to lose in a session and stop playing once that limit is reached.
- Time Limits: Allocate a specific amount of time for gambling and do not exceed it. Setting alarms or using in-built session timers can help you stay on track.
- Wagering Limits: Cap the amount you wager per bet to avoid impulsive, high-stake decisions.
Never gamble with money that you cannot afford to lose. Gambling should be funded from your entertainment budget, not from money set aside for essential expenses such as rent, bills, or groceries.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, the following organisations provide free, confidential support:
- BeGambleAware: A leading UK charity that provides information, advice, and support for those affected by gambling harms. Freephone helpline: 0808 8020 133 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). Website: begambleaware.org
- GamCare: Offers free counselling, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling. Their National Gambling Helpline can be reached on 0808 8020 133. They also offer live chat support via their website: gamcare.org.uk
- National Gambling Helpline: Operated by GamCare, this service provides immediate support and can refer you to local face-to-face counselling services across the UK.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with one another to help recover from a gambling problem. Details of local meetings can be found at gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- GamStop: The national online self-exclusion scheme for Great Britain. Register at gamstop.co.uk to restrict your access to online gambling sites.
Practical Tips for Staying in Control
Here are some straightforward tips to help you maintain a healthy relationship with gambling:
- Treat gambling as entertainment, not as a source of income
- Only gamble with money you can genuinely afford to lose
- Set a budget and a time limit before you start, and stick to both
- Never chase your losses — accept them as part of the experience
- Take regular breaks and avoid prolonged gambling sessions
- Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Balance gambling with other leisure activities and hobbies
- Talk openly with friends or family if you are concerned about your gambling
Remember, there is no shame in seeking help. Professional support is available, free of charge, and entirely confidential. If gambling has stopped being fun, it is time to reach out.
Last updated: 12 February 2026