Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Gordanova Valley Riding Centre, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only – never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to gamble, please do so within your means and always remember that the odds are in favour of the house.
We encourage all our visitors to gamble responsibly and to seek help if gambling begins to negatively impact their life.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in the United Kingdom. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age from any visitor. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Chasing losses (gambling more to recover money lost)
- Hiding or lying about the extent of your gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to reduce gambling
- Experiencing relationship or financial difficulties because of gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money for excitement
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Thinking about gambling constantly
Self-Help Tools
Most UK-regulated betting sites offer the following tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a gambling session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gambling sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Outs: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing gambling services for a period of time (typically 6 months to 5 years)
Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gambling activity.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of the following organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free, confidential support and counselling for problem gamblers
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) - GamStop – The National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling in Great Britain
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Self-exclude from all participating online gambling operators - Gamblers Anonymous – A 12-step support group for problem gamblers
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free online counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Evidence-based resources and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Help for problem gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (free, confidential, 24/7)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Central Agency for Health Education
Website: www.bzga.de
Call to Action
If you are experiencing difficulties with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is a recognised condition that affects individuals and their families. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Contact one of the organisations listed above – they are free, confidential, and staffed by professionals who understand what you're going through.
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can begin your journey to recovery.