In the past, the importance of staying safe while playing at casinos was often overlooked, despite being perhaps the most important factor in guaranteeing a wholesome gambling experience. However, with the rapid growth of the online casino industry, safety and responsible gaming have become top priorities for both regulators and industry stakeholders today. 

From preventing underage gaming to spending limit initiatives, casinos are introducing policies and initiatives that will encourage players to approach gambling as entertainment while minimizing risks. For players in the UK, one of the top responsible gambling tools is self-exclusion. 

Let’s explore self-exclusion, what it is and how to go about it right away. 

What is Self-Exclusion?

At its core, self-exclusion is a voluntary withdrawal from gambling for a specific period, typically between three to six months. The tool is often used by people who want to manage compulsive gaming habits or avoid chasing losses. All casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission have self-exclusion features as part of regulatory compliance requirements. 

Players may choose to self-exclude from one or more mobile casinos UK. Known for their exquisite array of games and mouth-watering promotions, the best casinos in the UK strive to ensure the best standards of safety. And beyond the regular game-based features, they guarantee the safety and security of players through measures like self-exclusion. 

How to Self-Exclude from Online Casinos

There really is no hard-and-fast rule to self-exclusion as far as online casinos are concerned. Some players may choose to voluntarily exclude without any formality. You simply need to stay off casino apps either by using a software blocker of your choice or even deleting the app for a short period. 

However, most players eventually have challenges with keeping strictly to their self-exclusion when done informally. Alternatively, you can formalise your self-exclusion by engaging the casino or using a multi-operator self-exclusion scheme. 

With the former, all you have to do is reach out to the casino’s support team and they’ll help you with the process. Typically, this would involve limiting or restricting login periods, preventing deposits and temporarily blacklisting your account from playing games. 

Ultimately, the casino will always take reasonable measures to prevent you from using its features during your exclusion period. 

Types of Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Schemes Available to UK Players

If you’re a member of multiple casinos, requesting self-exclusion from each platform can be very tedious, and even discouraging. Thankfully, there are several multi-operator self-exclusion schemes that you can take advantage of in the UK. 

With just a single request, you can self-exclude from as many licensed casinos as you wish to, all for free. That said, here is a list of free national self-exclusion platforms with a multi-operator reach. 

GAMSTOP

Launched in 2018, GAMSTOP is a tool that allows players to restrict their access to online gambling activities in Great Britain. The scheme ensures that players registered with it cannot visit or use gambling websites for a specific period. Since inception, GAMSTOP has helped self-exclude over 350,000 people. 

Multi-Operator Self Exclusion Scheme (MOSES)

With a focus on sports betting, MOSES helps self-exclude players from bookmakers, whether online or physical. The platform works with a toll-free number that interested participants can call to voluntarily restrict their betting activity.

Self-Enrolment National Self Exclusion (SENSE)

SENSE offers multi-operator self-exclusion for licensed brick-and-mortar casino companies in the UK. Players can register on SENSE by submitting an email application or applying at casino venues. 

Wrapping Up: Additional Responsible Gaming Tips

Generally, self-exclusion is a very potent tool to combat compulsive gambling habits and make the most of your casino experience. However, it is best paired with other responsible gambling tips. 

• Always ensure to set a budget and stick to it. 
• Utilize time limits for gambling activity on your smartphones.
• Do not gamble under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Use deposit and loss limits when available. 
• Avoid borrowing money to gamble at online casinos. 

Ultimately, treat gambling as a fun activity or entertainment rather than as an income source and you’ll be poised to enjoy a healthier and more balanced gambling experience.