Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Mecca Bingo, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Bingo, like all forms of gambling, should never be viewed as a way to make money or solve financial problems. It's important to only spend what you can afford to lose and to play for fun.
We are committed to promoting responsible gaming and supporting the wellbeing of our players.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to play bingo and use our services in Great Britain. This is a legal requirement.
We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity and age at any time. If you are under 18, please do not access our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognising the signs of problem gambling is the first step towards getting help. Please review the following checklist:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gaming activity secret from family or friends
- Loss of control: Gambling for longer or with more money than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, study, or family commitments
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut down on gambling
- Financial problems: Experiencing debt, missed bills, or financial difficulties due to gambling
- Relationship strain: Conflicts with loved ones over your gaming habits
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features
We provide a range of tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders during play about the time and money you've spent
- Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you need a break from gaming
These tools are designed to help you play responsibly and within your means. We encourage you to use them.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are organisations that can provide support:
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free confidential support and counselling for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme covering all licensed UK online gambling operators
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gamblers Anonymous – Free peer support and recovery meetings
www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
International Resources
- 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
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 - Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
www.bzga.de
Need Help?
If you think you may have a problem with gambling, or if someone close to you is affected, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support – many people have successfully overcome problem gambling with professional assistance.
Contact one of the organisations listed above or speak to your GP, who can provide referrals to specialist services.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it stops being enjoyable, it's time to seek help.