Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Wheelchair of Hope, we believe that gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Playing at online casinos should be fun, exciting, and within your means. If gambling ever stops being enjoyable or begins to negatively impact your life, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your province) to play at any online casino. If you are under the legal age for gambling in your jurisdiction, you are not permitted to access or use casino services. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all legal requirements before participating.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop quickly. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek support:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, utilities, medications)
- Hiding gambling activity from friends, family, or loved ones
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next gambling session
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Lying about time or money spent gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Attempting to cut down or stop gambling but being unable to do so
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or emotional distress
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you must stop playing
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from casino accounts if you need a break
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a mandatory break from gambling for a set period
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide gambling is no longer right for you
We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations in Canada & Beyond
If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, confidential help is available:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Information and resources for Canadians dealing with problem gambling
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free, confidential support and counseling
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counseling and support services
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org — Resources and helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Take Action Today
If you believe you or someone close to you has a gambling problem, please reach out for help immediately. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available. There is no shame in seeking assistance—taking action is a sign of strength.
Contact the Responsible Gambling Council at www.responsiblegambling.org or speak with a healthcare provider, counselor, or trusted family member about your concerns.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's not, help is available.