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Responsible Gambling: Tools and Free Help in South Africa
Betting should be entertainment you can afford, not a way to make money or solve problems. If it has stopped feeling that way, free and confidential help is available.
Free, confidential support
South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (National Responsible Gambling Programme)
Toll-free counselling line: 0800 006 008
WhatsApp: send HELP to 076 675 0710
The service is free and offers counselling and treatment referrals for gamblers and for family members affected by someone else's gambling.
Warning signs
- Betting more than you planned, or more often.
- Chasing losses to win back money.
- Borrowing money, or using money meant for bills, to gamble.
- Hiding your betting from people close to you.
- Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you are not betting.
If any of these sound familiar, it is worth talking to someone now rather than later.
Tools licensed bookmakers offer
South African-licensed operators, including Hollywoodbets, provide tools to help you stay in control. Look in your account settings or ask support:
- Deposit limits per day, week or month.
- Time-outs to take a short break from your account.
- Self-exclusion for a longer period, including across operators through the national exclusion register.
Your bank may also let you block gambling transactions on your card. If you set up such a block, it is there to protect you.
Simple habits that help
- Decide your budget before you start, and treat it as money spent, not invested.
- Never bet to pay off debt or cover bills.
- Set a time limit and take breaks.
- Avoid betting when you are upset, stressed or have been drinking.
You must be 18 or older to gamble in South Africa.