Pompey Supporters' Trust would like to thank Portsmouth FC for backing the Bet Regret campaign promoted by Gamble Aware and the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA).
The campaign aims to raise awareness among football fans of the risks of impulsive betting, particularly helping to recognise the behaviours that can lead from low-risk betting to more serious and addictive gambling issues.
PST chairman Simon Colebrook said: “We know from the FSA survey that concern around gambling is a live issue for supporters, so are pleased to hear that Pompey are keen to back the Bet Regret campaign.
“We recognise that for some people, gambling is part of the football experience – Bet Regret is not trying to put a stop to that.
“It is there to promote safer gambling, to encourage gamblers to assess their habits and recognise the difference between having fun and the move into the darker area of gambling habits and harms.”
Mark Catlin, Pompey chief executive, added: “The PST approached the board to ask if we would support Bet Regret and it was an easy decision to make. All the directors recognise the harm that gambling can cause.
“Over the coming weeks you will see campaign materials around the ground on matchdays, as we aim to get this important message across to our supporters.”
Safer Gambling Tips
Below are some handy tips on how fans can keep Bet Regret in check and think twice before placing a bet.
1. Take a time out – Think Twice and go bet-free for a period of time. You can set a Time-Out period of hours, days or weeks through most online gambling accounts.
2. Pause before you place it – Pausing can help us make better decisions. Wait five seconds before pressing that ‘Bet now’ button. Count to 10 or say the bet out loud and focus on how much you could lose, before you commit.
3. Balance gambling with other activities – It's important that gambling is not your only pastime. Try to plan hobbies and activities to help fill free periods. When you are busy, you are less likely to make a bet you know you shouldn’t.
4. Set a money limit in advance – Before you start betting set yourself a cash cap and think twice about how much you're willing to bet. You can set yourself daily or weekly limits. Many sites allow you to pre-set a maximum amount for deposits, stakes and losses over a given time period.
5. Set a time limit – Why not set yourself limits on the times you bet? Plan a distraction for those moments when you’re not betting and stay clear of Bet Regret. Many betting and gambling providers allow you to set up notifications to help you manage your time. Or just set an alarm on your phone.
For more information on the campaign, head to www.begambleaware.org