Keeping play in the amber zone
Amber Signal Workshop is an information and comparison site. We do not run casino games, handle deposits or hold player accounts. Even so, safer gambling sits at the centre of how we think about the shortlist we show.
Gambling should be an occasional, controlled form of entertainment – never a way to pay bills, clear debts or escape financial pressure. If that balance starts to slip, it is important to act early.
1. Gambling as entertainment only
Casino games are designed so the house has the edge in the long run. To keep things under control:
- Only gamble with money you can genuinely afford to lose.
- Set clear limits on both spend and time before you start.
- Never chase losses or try to “win back” what you have lost.
- Avoid gambling when tired, stressed, upset or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Make sure gambling is not replacing hobbies, work, study or time with family and friends.
2. Tools offered by UKGC-licensed operators
Operators that are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission must provide tools and information to help customers stay in control. On casinos we link to, you will usually find:
- Deposit limits – caps on how much you can deposit over a period (daily, weekly, monthly).
- Loss and session limits – controls on how much you can lose or how long you can play.
- Reality checks – on-screen reminders showing how long you have been active.
- Time-outs – short-term breaks where you cannot use your account.
- Self-exclusion – longer blocks (typically at least 6 months) if you need a more serious break.
These tools are controlled inside each casino account. Amber Signal Workshop cannot enable or disable them for you and has no access to your settings.
3. Independent support in Great Britain
If you are concerned about your own gambling or someone else’s, independent organisations can help:
Website: begambleaware.org
Helpline (24/7): 0808 8020 133
Website: gamcare.org.uk
Website: gamstop.co.uk
4. Signs gambling may be becoming a problem
It can be hard to notice when gambling shifts from a hobby into something more harmful. Warning signs can include:
- Spending more time or money than you planned on gambling.
- Hiding gambling activity from friends or family.
- Borrowing money or using essential funds (rent, bills, food) to gamble.
- Feeling anxious, low or irritable when you try to cut back or stop.
- Chasing losses or raising stakes after losing.
- Letting gambling affect work, study or relationships.
5. Young people and access to gambling
Online gambling in Great Britain is restricted to adults aged 18 and over. It is important to:
- Keep account details, payment cards and devices secure and out of reach of children.
- Log out of gambling accounts on shared devices and use security features where possible.
- Consider using parental controls and content filters to limit access to gambling sites and apps.
6. Our position and limitations
Amber Signal Workshop:
- Is an information and comparison site only.
- Does not operate gambling products or accept stakes.
- Does not hold customer balances or payment details.
- Cannot access your casino accounts, limits or self-exclusion records.
All account controls, safer-gambling tools, complaints and dispute processes are handled by each operator and, where applicable, its independent dispute resolution provider.
If you think gambling is starting to cause problems, the most important step is to talk to someone and consider taking a full break. Independent help is available – you do not have to handle it alone.