Private gambling and gaming
Private gaming may only occur in a place to which the public does not have access (a private dwelling, hostel, hall of residence or similar establishment).
No profits can be made from private gaming, irrespective of how you intend to use those profits so it is no good for fundraising.
The gaming must not involve playing or staking against a bank, and all participants in the gaming must have an equal chance of winning.
No charge may be made for participation in private gaming (that includes any entrance fee or other charge for admission).
You can’t deduct any amount from the stakes or prizes either – that would also be considered a charge for taking part in the gaming. It doesn’t matter whether the charge is voluntary or compulsory, particularly if customers are prevented from playing if they do not make a ‘voluntary’ donation, or there is strong peer pressure to make a donation.
If people join a club to attend and take part in your ‘private’ event it is likely they will still be regarded as members of the public, particularly if club membership is acquired only a short time before the event, and in order to attend the event.
Persons under 18 are allowed to participate in private gaming.
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Last updated: 2 July 2021
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