As of this year, October 19th is going to be an important day in the diaries of bingo officials up and down the country. Earlier this year we reported that the Bingo Association joined forces with the gaming industry and agreed this date should be set aside as time to reflect on the importance of responsible gambling so that everyone involved takes responsibility for their play.
There are many approaches to increasing awareness planned for next week which extend from posters in bingo halls, and on site banners to local and national events. There is also mass media coverage planned for many of these events. This combined with the many talks and information packs handed out means that players of bingo will be included in the awareness campaign. While the commonly held perception of bingo is that it is a soft version of gambling, once an addiction sets in, players of this game are as at risk of getting into debt as with other forms of gambling. In response to this important new date, we have put together a quick guide so you can make sure you are playing it safe while online.
What you can do to keep your gaming fun
Setting yourself a bingo budget to play with is one of the most important means of keeping your gaming in check. This sensible approach to the game means you won't be stretching your finances. Plan your budget carefully as it's easy to get carried away -especially while in chat!
Ask for help
There are many support groups available to those who are experiencing difficulties in controlling their gaming, and the most respectable online bingo sites will be supported by one or more of these. Names such as GamCare and Gamble Aware are the best places to go to for help and both offer help-lines for those who need help straight away. Each of these groups offer differing types of help; GamCare for example offer live online counselling for those experiencing problems, whereas if you are unsure if you have a problem you can visit the Gamble Aware site and fill in their online questionnaire to see how your gaming fares if you are worried.
Look for approval certificates from either of these groups on any sites you are looking to play on. Big name brands such as 888 Ladies have been approved for responsible gaming and so will respond if you get into trouble as a member of their site.