Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Way to Make Money

At Mecca Bingo, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Bingo and other games of chance should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The outcome of all games is determined by chance, and the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only spend what you can afford to lose, and never gamble with money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or food.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling in the United Kingdom. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity at any time. 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:

• Spending more money or time gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover lost money
• Hiding your gambling activities from friends or family
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Using gambling as a way to escape problems or negative emotions
• Failed attempts to control, reduce, or stop gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling

Self-Help Tools & Controls

We provide several tools to help you manage your gaming responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your account if you feel you need a break
• Time-Out: Take a break from gaming for a set period without closing your account

These tools are designed to help you stay in control. Please use them if you feel your gaming is becoming problematic.

Support Organisations & Help Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

United Kingdom

• GamCare
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free, confidential support and counselling for problem gamblers and their families
• GamStop
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
• Gamblers Anonymous
  Peer support meetings across the UK for those affected by problem gambling

Other Countries

• Australia: Gambling Help Online
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
  www.ncpgambling.org
• Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  Information and support for problem gambling

If You Need Help

If you think you may have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support—problem gambling is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible. Contact one of the organisations listed above, or speak to your GP who can provide referrals to specialist services.

Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.