Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

At Social Innovation Sydney, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting on Paddy Power and other gambling activities carry inherent risks, and it's important to gamble within your means and for enjoyment only.

Please only participate in gambling activities if you can afford to lose the money you spend, and remember that the odds are always in favour of the house.

Age Verification

In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including sports betting with Paddy Power. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to gamble.

If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services. If you are a parent or guardian concerned about a young person's gambling habits, please seek guidance from the support organisations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually and may affect your financial wellbeing, mental health, and relationships. Please be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:

• Chasing losses: Trying to recover money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling activity secret from family or friends
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or personal obligations due to gambling
• Increasing stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to feel the same excitement
• Loss of control: Unable to stick to gambling limits you've set
• Borrowing money: Taking out loans or using credit to fund gambling
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when not gambling or when trying to cut back
• Relationship problems: Gambling causing conflict with family or friends
• Neglecting health: Reduced sleep, poor diet, or ignoring medical needs due to gambling
• Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling restless or anxious when not gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please reach out for support immediately.

Self-Help Tools and Controls

Most reputable online gambling operators, including Paddy Power, provide tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you're willing to deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're prepared to lose during a session or period
• Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum stake you can place on individual bets
• Reality Checks: Enable reminder notifications at regular intervals during your gambling session to help you stay aware of time spent
• Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Take a temporary break from gambling for a period you choose (ranging from 24 hours to several weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from accessing gambling services for a set period (typically 6 months to 5 years)

We strongly recommend using these tools to help manage your gambling and maintain responsible habits.

Support Organisations

If you're struggling with gambling or concerned about your habits, professional help is available. Here are organisations providing free, confidential support:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
• GamStop – National Self-Exclusion Scheme for online gambling in Great Britain
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  Allows you to self-exclude from all online gambling operators at once
• National Problem Gambling Clinic – NHS specialist treatment service
  Website: NHS National Problem Gambling Clinic

Other Countries

• Australia: Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (confidential, free, 24/7)
• Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  Website: www.bzga.de

If You Need Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help – problem gambling is a recognised condition, and treatment is available.

Contact one of the organisations listed above, speak to your GP, or call one of the helpline numbers provided. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Remember: You don't have to face this alone.