From Monday, 3 November, to Sunday, 9 November, the fifth annual Responsible Gambling Week takes place across the Czech Republic. This awareness campaign, organized by the Responsible Gambling project, reminds players of safe gambling practices, highlights the risks of gambling-related addiction, and provides concrete support for players and their families.
Support for Players and Families
Dozens of addiction support centers participate in the Week, offering online counseling, workshops, and open-house events. The main goal is to assist those struggling with gambling and to inform family members and close friends on how to intervene early. The Responsible Gambling project, part of the Institute for Gambling Regulation, advises players to follow the “Responsible Player’s Ten Rules,” such as setting a gambling budget, limiting playing time, using self-imposed limits, and maintaining other leisure activities.
Help for Players and Loved Ones
A key service is the Gambling Help Line for players and their families: +420 777 477 877. Experts from Naberte kurz – Společnost Podané ruce are available year-round. Contact is also possible via online chat, social media, WhatsApp, or e-mail at kontakt@nabertekurz.cz.
Warning Against Illegal Gambling
This year, the Week also focuses on the risks of illegal gambling. “Illegal websites spread easily and significantly contribute to the development of gambling addiction because they operate without oversight,” warns Jan Řehola, Director of the Institute for Gambling Regulation. Illegal operators allow underage individuals and persons listed in the Excluded Persons Register to gamble, provide no player protection, often misuse personal data, and may fail to pay out winnings.
International Perspective and Legislation
The Responsible Gambling project consistently emphasizes the importance of verifying operators’ legality. A list of licensed operators is available on the Ministry of Finance and project websites. International experiences and regulatory measures against illegal gambling will also be presented at the International Conference on Gambling, which, together with the Prague as the Heart of Responsible Gambling event, provides a platform for sharing expertise and best practices.
Public Events and Online Activities
The Week involves key project partners – Fortuna, Chance, Sazka, and Tipsport – as well as advisory centers Portimo, SaneVita Centre, Laxus, Renadi, Sananim, Kolpingovo dílo ČR, and Prevent99. They organize open-house days, discussions, and provide personal and online counseling.
Podcast Series “Rodents in the Head”
Every day during the Week, Společnost Podané ruce releases a new episode of anonymized stories from former players. The series aims to inspire others to seek help and openly discuss gambling-related problems.
👉 Program and list of participating organizations can be found here.
