Heart of Kent Hospice

Whilst the majority of people do gamble within their means, for some gambling can become a problem. It may help you to keep control to remember the following:

• Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way of making money.
• Avoid chasing losses.
• Only gamble what you can afford to lose.
• Keep track of the time and amount you spend gambling.

If you want to have a break from gambling you can use our self–exclusion option by emailing us at jennie.hubbard@hokh.co.uk with your name, address and membership number(s). We will then close your membership(s) for a minimum period of 6 months, during which time it will not be possible for the account(s) to be re-opened for any reason.

If you need to talk someone about problem gambling then contact GamCare a registered charity that provides confidential telephone support and counselling to anyone who is affected by problem gambling. GamCare can be contacted on 0845 6000 133 (local rate from UK). Alternatively, RiGT www.rigt.org.uk Gambleaware www.gambleaware.co.uk.

Problem Gambling

If you are concerned that gambling may have taken over your (or someone else's) life then the following questions may help you find out:

• Do you stay away from work, college or school to gamble?
• Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
• When gambling and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and need to gamble again, as soon as possible?
• Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even the fare home or the cost of a cup of tea?
• Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time you have spent gambling?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends or hobbies?
• After losing, do you feel you must try and win back your losses as soon as possible?
• Do arguments, frustrations or disappointments make you want to gamble?
• Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gambling?

The more you answer 'yes' to these questions, the more likely you are to have a serious gambling problem. To speak to someone about this, contact the GamCare confidential helpline on 0845 6000 133 or visit their website (www.gamcare.org.uk) for further information.

www.rigt.org.uk

www.gamcare.org.uk

      www.gambleaware.co.uk