Self-Exclusion

How the Program Works

  • Self-exclusion is a legislated programme where a player may wish to exclude himself/herself from gambling activities.
  • In terms of the legislation anyone can apply for self-exclusion.
  • An individual that is excluded from gambling activities cannot take part in any gambling activity for a period of 6 months.
  • During this period of exclusion, an individual that is excluded is offered counselling and support through the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP).

    • Request for self-exclusion

  • A request for exclusion can be obtained from the Gauteng Gambling Board and any of the gambling operators through their security departments.

    • Non-compliance with self-exclusion

  • It is the responsibility or the player who requested to be excluded from participating in gambling to ensure that he or she complies with the terms of the self-exclusion.
  • In case of non-compliance the punter may be denied access to gambling and in certain circumstances in addition a charge of trespassing.

    • Upliftment of the self-exclusion order

  • Requests for upliftment of the self-exclusion order will only be considered once the self-exclusion order has been in force for a period of 6 months and the player proves that he or she has attended counselling sessions with one of the NRGP’s Treatment Professionals

    Self-Exclusion Session

  • The Self-Exclusion sessions are free to the user to register for the NRGP’s sessions.
  • Contact the NRGP on 0800 006 008 or email helpline@sargf.org.za

    • By completing and lodging a self-exclusion notice you agree to all of the following:

    1. To not enter or attempt to enter a nominated betting site or place a telephone bet during the exclusion period.

    2. Having the bookmaker to remove your access from, or prevent you from entering the relevant nominated site.

    3. Having your personal details, including the self-exclusion form, placed on a Responsible Gambling Incident Register held by the bookmaker.

    4. Allow the bookmaker access to or close any accounts you hold with them for the length of the exclusion period.

    5. Understanding the notice is not a contract and that you cannot sue the bookmaker or betting exchange operator or their staff, agents or contractors over any matter relating to the self-exclusion notice.

    6. Have the right to seek independent or legal or other professional advice before signing the self-exclusion notice.

    Click here for the Self-Exclusion Notice Document

    After you have completed the document, please e-mail to the following address:

    support@topbet.co.za

    0861 867 238

    Frequently asked questions:

    Self-Exclusion:

    1) Q: How does the self-exclusion work?

    A: It is programme aimed at assisting problem gamblers to voluntary exclude themselves from gambling activities.

    2) Q: After banning myself from gambling will I be allowed to enter the Casino?

    A: The self-exclusion programme should exclude the person from the gambling floor and is not allowed to participate in any gambling activities of the bookmaker.

    3) Q: Can I ban myself for life?

    A: The self-ban order is effective for a minimum of 06 months and does not automatically be revoked after that period. If it is not revoked through the punter`s request it could be effective for life.

    4) Q: How can I ban my partner/ relative from gambling?

    A: A court order obtained to prohibit such person from any or specific licensed premises.

    5) Q: What is a difference between self-ban and refusal entry?

    A: A self-ban is a voluntary exclusion from gambling and refusal of entry is an order issued by the Casino due contravention of the gambling laws of the country.

    Revocation:

    1) Q: Why should I go to counselling?

    A: It is always advisable to seek counselling for any signs of addiction. Through the partnership with the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), the Board refers all the self-excluded punters to go for counselling prior to be considered for revocation.

    2) Q: What is the cost of the counselling programme?

    A: The counselling service is at no cost to the punter/gamblers.

    3) Q: How many sessions should I attend?

    A: The punter should go for a minimum of 04 session to the counselling programme.

    4) Q: When do I start to apply for the revocation of the self-banning order?

    A: You are only eligible to apply for revocation of the self-banning order after 06 months of being excluded from the gambling activities.

    5) Q: How long should I wait for my request to be uplifted?

    A: Upon the receipt of the request and the supporting documents (proof of attendance of the counselling services), the punter will give the Board a maximum of 30 days for the self-exclusion to be revoked