Play Responsibly

Poker is an exciting, skill-driven game, but it’s crucial to always keep it fun and within your limits. At Poker Gods UK, we champion responsible gambling practices. This page provides information and tools to help you stay in control of your poker play and gambling activities.

Setting Your Limits
All reputable UK poker sites offer account tools to help you manage how much time and money you spend:
  • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps so you can’t put in more than you budgeted. We strongly encourage setting a deposit limit before you start playing. Think of it as buying in for a tournament - decide what you’re willing (and can afford) to risk beforehand.
  • Loss Limits: Some sites (e.g., Betfred, Bet365) allow you to cap net losses over a period. If you hit that loss, you’re stopped from playing further.
  • Session Time Limits: It’s easy to lose track of time at the tables. Use reality check or session reminders (pop-ups that appear hourly or at custom intervals on sites like PokerStars and Party) to prompt you to take a break. You can also set a maximum single session length.
  • Cool-Off Periods: If you feel you need a short break, all sites let you take a “timeout.” This can be as short as 24 hours or a few weeks. During a cool-off, you cannot play for real money, giving you space to regroup.
  • Self-Exclusion: For a more serious step, you can self-exclude from a site or all UK gambling sites. Self-exclusion typically lasts at least 6 months and cannot be reversed. It’s a powerful tool if you suspect loss of control. UK players can use GAMSTOP - a free service to self-exclude from all UKGC-licensed online gambling companies in one go. Visit gamstop.co.uk to register.
To set any of these limits, go to the responsible gaming or safer gambling section of your poker site (usually under your Account or Profile settings).
If unsure, contact the site’s customer support; they are required (and usually happy) to assist with limit-setting.

Recognizing Problem Gambling
It’s important to reflect honestly on your poker habit. Here are some warning signs that your gambling might be becoming problematic:
  • Chasing losses - i.e., playing longer or at higher stakes to recover money you’ve lost.
  • Playing beyond your bankroll or financial means - using money needed for bills or other responsibilities.
  • Feeling stress, anxiety, or irritability when not gambling - or conversely, feeling only happiness when gambling.
  • Hiding or lying about your poker play to family or friends.
  • Failing to stop or cut down play even after trying.
  • Neglecting work, studies, or loved ones due to time spent playing.
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, take action immediately. Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of intelligence or skill level; it often sneaks up gradually.

Getting Support
There are many professional resources available confidentially and free of charge:
  • GamCare: The UK’s leading charity on gambling harm. They offer a 24/7 helpline (0808 8020 133) and live chat at gamcare.org.uk . They can provide advice, support, and arrange counseling if needed.
  • GambleAware (BeGambleAware): Provides information and directs people to support services. Their site begambleaware.org has self-assessment tools and links.
  • Gamblers Anonymous (GA): A fellowship of men and women sharing their experience to solve their gambling problem. They hold regular meetings across the UK. Visit gamblersanonymous.org.uk for meeting lists and forums.
  • National Problem Gambling Clinic (NHS): If you are in England and 16 or over, and have complex gambling issues, you might be eligible for this NHS specialized clinic.
    A GP or GamCare can refer you.
  • Blocking Software: Consider installing software that blocks access to gambling sites/apps on your devices. Examples include Gamban, BetBlocker, and GamBlock. Some are free (BetBlocker), while others have a small fee - but they can be very effective barriers.

Our Commitment
Poker Gods UK is committed to promoting safe and responsible play.
We abide by UK Advertising Codes and UK Gambling Commission regulations to ensure we never encourage excessive or underage gambling.
You will notice:
  • We do not use misleading terms like “risk-free” or “guaranteed wins.”
  • We clearly display 18+ icons and gamble responsibly messaging on our pages.
  • Our content focuses on the strategic and entertainment aspects of poker, not just the money.
  • We remind you that any bonus or offer comes with terms - including potential wagering, expiration, etc. - so you can make an informed choice, not chase “free money.”

Remember, you should play poker primarily for enjoyment and intellectual challenge, not as a way to make money you depend on. Even the best players face downswings. Always gamble with funds you can afford to lose. If the fun stops - or you feel out of depth - stop playing and seek help.

Your mental and financial well-being come first. There will always be another hand, another tournament - but only if you’re in a good place to enjoy it. Let’s keep poker a positive part of life.

(For more resources or to talk to us privately about any concern, email [email protected]. We are not counselors, but we can listen and point you to professional help.)