Responsible Gaming Policy in South Africa
1. Purpose and Scope
This document establishes the responsible gaming framework, available support services, and self-exclusion procedures for individuals in South Africa. The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation is recognized as the principal provider of treatment and counselling within the regulatory framework.
All licensed gambling operators in South Africa must comply with responsible gambling principles as set forth by national and provincial regulations. This policy applies to all licensed gambling activities conducted within South Africa.
2. Problem Gambling Definition
Problem gambling refers to engagement in gambling activities at a level that disrupts physical or mental health, school or work performance, financial stability, or interpersonal relationships. Gambling is designated for entertainment purposes. Transition from recreational use to compulsive or addictive behavior requires intervention and support.
3. Support Services
3.1. Counselling and Treatment
Free, confidential counselling and treatment services are available for individuals and immediate family members impacted by problem gambling. Services are offered through a nationwide network of treatment professionals and include:
- Face-to-face counselling
- Crisis intervention
- Mentorship programs
- Support group sessions
All services are provided at no charge.
3.2. 24/7 Helpline
A toll-free 24/7 counselling line is available for immediate assistance:
- Toll-free South Africa: 0800 006 008
- International: +27 21 674 5830
- WhatsApp/SMS: 076 675 0710 (send “HELP”)
- Email: [email protected]
The helpline offers telephone support, referral to treatment professionals, and debriefing following gambling-related incidents.
3.3. Self-Assessment Tools
Self-assessment tools are available to assist individuals in identifying potential gambling problems. These tools provide immediate feedback and are accessible through official responsible gambling channels.
4. Self-Exclusion Program
4.1. Regulatory Framework
The self-exclusion program operates in accordance with the National Gambling Regulations. Individuals may exclude themselves from gambling activities across all licensed operators and venues within South Africa.
4.2. Minimum Exclusion Period
The mandatory minimum self-exclusion period is six months. During this time, excluded persons are prohibited from accessing licensed gambling premises or participating in online gambling activities through licensed operators.
4.3. Application Process
Applications for self-exclusion may be submitted through:
- Any of the nine provincial gambling boards
- Licensed gambling operators
- Treatment professionals within the responsible gambling network
Applications require written submission and identification verification.
4.4. Mandatory Counselling
Participation in counselling sessions with treatment professionals is required for all individuals under self-exclusion. Proof of attendance is mandatory to request removal of the exclusion order.
4.5. Lifting Self-Exclusion
Requests to discontinue self-exclusion are only accepted after the six-month period. Documented proof of counselling attendance is required before exclusion may be lifted.
5. Operator Obligations
Licensed gambling operators must:
- Display responsible gambling information at physical and digital locations
- Provide access to self-exclusion registration
- Enforce self-exclusion across all properties and platforms
- Display helpline contact details
- Make educational materials regarding problem gambling risks available
- Participate in responsible gambling training initiatives
6. Educational and Training Programs
6.1. Industry Training
Responsible gambling training is provided to operators and regulators, including the Responsible Gambling 101 Course. Training topics include identification of problem gambling indicators, intervention strategies, and referral procedures.
6.2. Public Education Materials
Educational posters, pamphlets, and digital content are distributed to all licensed operators, presenting information on responsible gambling, warning signs, and contact details for support services.
7. Contact Information
South African Responsible Gambling Foundation
125 Corlett Drive, Johannesburg, 2018, South Africa
Telephone: (011) 581 4800
Fax: (011) 581 4903
Email: [email protected]
Website: responsiblegambling.org.za
8. Confidentiality
All counselling, treatment, and support services are strictly confidential. Personal information disclosed during counselling or helpline contact is protected in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.
9. Accessibility
Services are accessible to all individuals in South Africa regardless of location. The national network of treatment professionals ensures face-to-face counselling in all provinces. Remote support is available via telephone, email, and digital platforms.