Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be entertainment, not a financial strategy. Here's how to keep it that way, and where to get help if you need it.
Our Position
ScoresAhead provides football analysis and predictions for informational purposes. We are not a gambling operator and do not facilitate betting. However, we recognize that our content may be used in gambling contexts, and we take that responsibility seriously.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Gambling becomes a problem when it stops being fun. Consider seeking help if you:
- •Spend more time or money gambling than you can afford
- •Chase losses by betting more to try to win back money
- •Borrow money or sell things to fund gambling
- •Hide your gambling from family or friends
- •Feel anxious, stressed, or irritable when not gambling
- •Neglect work, studies, or relationships because of gambling
- •Gamble to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
- •Find it difficult to stop or set limits
Guidelines for Safer Gambling
Set Limits Before You Start
Decide how much time and money you're willing to spend before you begin. Stick to those limits regardless of outcomes.
Only Bet What You Can Afford to Lose
Never gamble with money needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food. If losing the money would cause problems, don't bet it.
Never Chase Losses
Trying to win back money you've lost usually leads to bigger losses. Accept that losses are part of gambling and walk away when you hit your limit.
Take Breaks
Regular breaks help maintain perspective. If gambling stops being enjoyable, take a longer break.
Don't Gamble Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and can lead to decisions you wouldn't normally make.
Keep Perspective
Remember that gambling is entertainment with a cost, like going to the cinema. No system guarantees profits. Even with good predictions, you will experience losing streaks.
Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. These organizations offer free, confidential support:
International Resources
United Kingdom
National Gambling Helpline
Freephone: 0808 8020 133
United States
Text Support
Text "HELP" to 233-822
Other Countries
Australia: Gambling Help Online — gamblinghelponline.org.au | 1800 858 858
Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — responsiblegambling.org
Ireland: Gamblers Anonymous Ireland — gamblersanonymous.ie
New Zealand: Gambling Helpline — 0800 654 655
Self-Exclusion Tools
Most licensed gambling operators offer self-exclusion programs that allow you to block yourself from gambling for a set period. Consider using these if you need a break:
- GAMSTOP (UK): Free self-exclusion from all UK-licensed gambling sites — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Operator self-exclusion: Most gambling sites have their own self-exclusion options in account settings
- Blocking software: Apps like Gamban can block gambling sites on your devices
Age Restriction
You must be 18 or older to gamble. This applies in most jurisdictions. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious problems. If you're under 18, please do not use gambling services.
Remember: there's no shame in asking for help.
Problem gambling can affect anyone. The resources listed above are free, confidential, and staffed by people who understand what you're going through. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.