Gambling and young people
In most cases, the minimum legal age for gambling in Great Britain is 18.
This applies to:
- some types of arcade
- all betting shops
- bingo halls
- casinos
- race tracks
- online gambling.
The gambling industry's responsibility to protect young people
Any organisation offering gambling facilities in Britain must have procedures to prevent underage gambling. This includes both online betting sites and physical places you can gamble such as betting shops or casinos.
All gambling websites regulated by us must have:
- up to date policies and procedures designed to prevent underage gambling
- a warning that underage gambling is an offence
- a requirement that customers affirm they are legally old enough to gamble.
Get help today
There are many organisations that can help and you can also find specific help if you know a young person who is struggling with gambling.
Latest trends in online gambling
Last updated: 3 June 2021
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