Play the National Lottery in a Responsible Way.

Here at Lotto4Pros.com we are committed to promoting the National Lottery in a socially responsible way. For most people, playing the National Lottery is a harmless flutter. However, playing the Lottery is gambling and therefore can lead to addiction and further problems. This can affect not only yourself, but also the lives of those you care about. Please play responsibly.

Camelot, the operator of the National Lottery has worked with GamCare, the UK’s national centre for information, advice and practical help regarding the social impact of gambling to develop policies and practices that address problem gambling. Whilst the majority of people play within their means, a few may find it difficult.

GamCare advises that National Lottery players should always remember the following:

• Playing National Lottery games should be entertaining and fun and not seen as a genuine way of making money or as an alternative to work;
• Avoid chasing losses;
• Only play an amount that you can afford;
• Keep track of the time and the amount of money you are spending;
• If required, make use of the Play Limits available for Instant Win Games or draw-based games;
• If you need to have a break from play, remember that you can exclude yourself from one or all of the Instant Win Games;

If you need to talk to someone about problem gambling then contact GamCare.

“In the three years that I have known about my husband’s gambling problem he has lied every day, stayed out all night and got us into so much debt that we have now just sold our house.”

If you’re concerned that the National Lottery may be playing too large a part in your life (or someone else’s), the following questions may help you to decide if you have a problem:

1. Do you stay away from work or college to gamble?
2. Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
3. When gambling and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and feel the need to gamble again as soon as possible?
4. Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even money you need for essentials?
5. Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time that you have gambled?
6. Have others ever criticised your gambling?
7. Have you lied, stolen or borrowed just to get money to gamble or to pay gambling debts?
8. Are you reluctant to spend money on anything else?
9. Have you lost interest in your family and friends?
10. Do you feel the need to win back any losses as soon as possible?
11. Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gambling?

“I want to stop but it doesn’t matter how little money I have - it ends up being spent on gambling.”

The more questions to which you answered yes, the more likely you are to have a serious gambling problem. To speak to someone in confidence contact GamCare on 0845 600 0133. You can also visit the GamCare website.

Playing the National Lotto can be great fun, but it’s also important to know when to stop and what the danger signs are. Camelot have produced a guide to sensible gambling to help you stay informed, whether you’re a parent, concerned about a friend or worried about your own gambling. You can download it here.

Related Link: Play the UK National Lottery for FREE

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