Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

At Northwood Project, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to a movie or concert. It should never be considered as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Betting sites should be used for fun with money you can afford to lose.

If you find yourself relying on gambling as income or as a solution to financial difficulties, please reach out for support immediately.

Age Verification

In Canada, the legal age to gamble is 18 years old or older (or the applicable legal age in your province or territory). It is your responsibility to ensure you meet these age requirements before placing any bets.

Northwood Project does not permit gambling by anyone under the legal age. If you are under 18, please do not use betting sites.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, problem gambling may be affecting your life:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money needed for essentials like rent, food, or bills
• Hiding your gambling activity or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
• Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
• Neglecting work, school, family, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to finance gambling
• Experiencing relationship conflicts related to gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Failed attempts to cut back or control gambling

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know, professional help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Gambling Limits

Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you stop gambling
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been gambling or how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting sites
• Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of time
• Gambling Breaks: Take mandatory cooling-off periods from gambling

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits. If you struggle to use them effectively, seek professional support.

Support Organizations in Canada & Beyond

If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organizations provide free, confidential support:

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Dedicated to research, education, and awareness of problem gambling across Canada
• Problem Gambling Services in Your Province: Most Canadian provinces offer free counseling and support through provincial health services

International Resources

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Counseling and support services for problem gambling
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline and resources for problem gambling support

Need Help? Reach Out Today

If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support—problem gambling is treatable, and many people recover with proper assistance.

Contact a support organization today:

• Call or visit your provincial problem gambling helpline
• Visit Responsible Gambling Council for Canadian resources
• Speak with a counselor, doctor, or trusted family member
• Use self-exclusion tools available on betting platforms

Your wellbeing matters. Recovery is possible, and help is available.