Responsible Gambling

 MWOS is committed to Responsible Gambling. We promote gambling as an enjoyable leisure activity and we believe that gambling can only remain this way if you stay in control and gamble responsibly. However, we know that for some people gambling can stop being a harmless leisure activity and become a problem. To assist you we offer a range of advice and account options to help you manage your gambling. These give you control over both the time and money you spend gambling. For More information please contact our support email at [email protected]

Advice for safer gambling

Following these tips can help you to stay safe if you choose to gamble.

1. Don’t think of gambling as a way to make money The venue is using gambling to make money. It’s not designed to work the other way around. Over time you will give away more money than you receive! Think of gambling as an entertainment expense – just like buying a movie ticket.
2. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose Gamble within your weekly entertainment budget, not with your phone bill or rent budget.
3. Set a money limit in advance Decide how much you can afford to lose before you go to play. When it’s gone – it’s over! If you win, you’ve been lucky, but don’t be disappointed if your luck doesn’t continue.
4. Set a time limit in advance It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re gambling. Set a time limit or alarm, and when time’s up – quit! Odds are that the more time you spend gambling, the more money you will lose.
5. Never chase your losses If you lose your set money limit and then try to win some of it back before you leave, then you haven’t really set a money limit. Chasing your losses will usually just lead to bigger and bigger losses.
6. Don’t gamble when you’re depressed or upset Decision-making can be more difficult when you’re stressed or emotionally upset. Make sure you only gamble when you’re feeling happy and clear headed.
7. Balance gambling with other activities When gambling becomes your only form of entertainment, it’s unlikely that you’re still just gambling for the fun of it, and your gambling may even be a problem. Make sure gambling isn’t your only pastime.
8. Don’t take your bank card with you This is a good way to safeguard your money limit and not let being “in the moment” warp your judgment.
9. Take frequent breaks Gambling continuously can cause you to lose track of time and perspective. Step out for some air or a bite to eat at regular intervals.
10. Don’t drink or use drugs when gambling Drugs and alcohol cloud judgment, and good judgment stands as your main line of defense against letting gambling get out of control.

Self-exclusion If you think you are spending too much time or money gambling then ask MWOS staff for more information about our self-exclusion scheme, or email [email protected] to close your account. Gambling blocking software What is blocking software? Blocking software is something that can be downloaded on to your device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) that limits access to websites or other services available over the internet. There are two types of software available:

• Gambling-specific blocking software which is designed to block gambling sites
• General blocking software which is designed to block a range of websites and can be used to set permissions or parental controls.

Some devices and internet service providers also allow users to set restrictions without needing to download software, and you can find out more about this by contacting your retailer or provider directly. Where can I find blocking software? We would always encourage you to do your own research, to find out which is the best product for you. Some blocking software is free, but some do include a charge. MWOS cannot be held responsible if there is a problem with the software you choose. These are examples of gambling-specific blocking software – please note there may be fees for this software:

• gamban.com
• gamblock.com
• betfilter.com
• betblocker.org

The below is an example of general blocking software which includes gambling blocking:

• netnanny.com