HUGE changes to gambling rules will come into force this year in a bid discourage people from spending their hard-earned cash.
Gambling businesses will have to comply with two new requirements from December 19.
The Gambling Commission said operators will be banned from promoting offers where customers have to carry out two or more types of games in order to get a bonus.
This means bettors won't have to gamble on games like slots and betting in order to get a cash bonus, but just one of these.
The Commission said evidence shows those betting on multiple games rather than just one are at more risk of harm.
It also said multiple game promotions confuse gamblers because of their complex terms and conditions.
In addition, a new limit will be placed on how many times people have to bet in order to unlock bonuses.
Currently, some promotional offers provide bonus funds to gamblers on condition they re-stake any winnings multiple times before they can withdraw their winnings.
For example, a £10 bonus with a 50 times wagering requirement requires the gambler to stake £500 before the winnings can be withdrawn.
However, from December 19 this wagering limit will be reduced to 10.
It is hoped this limit will encourage people to gamble for smaller periods and slower than they would usually.
Tim Miller, executive director for Research and Policy, said: “These changes will better protect consumers from gambling harm and give consumers much better clarity on, and certainty of, offers before they decide to sign up.”
Is it possible to gamble safely?
IT is important to stay safe when you gamble and that you feel able to reach out if you are struggling.
Senior Consumer Reporter Olivia Marshall shares different ways you can keep yourself safe when gambling.
Set a Budget
Determine how much money you can afford to lose before you start gambling and stick to that limit.
Never gamble with money that you need for essential expenses like rent, bills, or groceries.
Time Management
Set a time limit for your gambling activities.
It’s easy to lose track of time when gambling, so decide in advance how long you will play and stick to it.
Know the Odds
Understand the odds of the games you are playing.
Remember that gambling is based on chance, so be realistic about your chances of winning.
Avoid Chasing Losses
If you lose money, do not try to win it back by gambling more.
This often leads to deeper losses and can create a cycle of chasing losses that is hard to break.
Stay Sober
Avoid gambling when you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
These substances can impair your judgment and lead to risky behaviour.
Take Breaks
Regular breaks can help you stay in control and make more rational decisions.
Continuous play without breaks can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making.
Self-Exclusion and Limits
Many gambling platforms offer tools to help you control your gambling, such as self-exclusion programs or setting deposit limits.
Use these tools if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic.
Seek Support
If you think you may have a gambling problem, seek help.
There are many organisations that offer support and counselling for gambling addiction, such as GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous, and the National Gambling Helpline in the UK.
Educate Yourself
Learn about responsible gambling practices and be aware of the signs of problem gambling.
Understanding these can help you maintain a healthy relationship with gambling.
Gamble for Fun, Not Profit
Treat gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a way to make money.
The primary goal should be to have fun, and any wins should be considered a bonus.
The changes will come months after limits are imposed by the Government on how much gamblers can stake on online slots.
A single stake limit for online slots of £5 per spin for adults aged 25 and over will take effect from April 9.
Meanwhile, a £2 limit for adults aged 18 to 24 will come into force on May 21.
The Government is also set to introduce a levy on casino and betting operators’ profits to raise £100million to help those with gambling problems.
The levy is expected to come into force on April 6 and will have to be paid by businesses by October 1 each year moving forwards.
A voluntary system is currently in place, but it means some operators pay as little as £1 a year towards research, prevention and treatment.
Of the funding from the levy, 50% will go to NHS England and bodies in Scotland and Wales for gambling support and treatment systems, from referrals and triage through to recovery and aftercare.
Another 30% will be invested in measures such as national public health campaigns and training for frontline staff.
The remaining 20% will be used for a research programme on gambling to be developed by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
What should you do if you know someone with a gambling problem?
Gamble Aware's website suggests several ways you can help someone with a gambling problem.
This includes talking to them about it in a kind and understanding way without neglecting your own feelings.
You can encourage them to call the Gamble Aware helpline on 0808 8020 133 to get free help 24 hours a day seven days a week too.
If you yourself are struggling with a gambling problem, the NHS website has a useful page where you can find out what steps you should take to get help.
For example, it suggests you may benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that can help change the way you think and behave.
It also signposts you to a number of charities and support services including GamCare (0808 8020 133) and GamLearn.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
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