Welcome to Simon Says. I’m Simon Young, an industry veteran with a passion for casino games like slots, blackjack and poker. I started this site to offer guidance to UK casino players looking to expand their horizons while avoiding the many danger zones of the Wild West that is the internet.
Gambling with safety in mind – that’s my game. So, if you’re looking for trustworthy online casino sites with top-quality gaming content and exciting experiences through bonuses, tournaments, and gamification, then let me guide you.
I use my industry experience and insider knowledge to make informed assessments about the hundreds of casino sites you can find online. I share what I find with you so you know what to expect from each site.
As I go along, I will highlight the operators I deem the safest for UK players, best for specific games or genres, and offer the best bonuses so you can enjoy your online gaming experience with peace of mind.
Simon Says: Knowledge is Power
There are two things you should know about me: one, I’ve been working in the gaming industry for 20-odd years, and two, I’m a writer. This means I know what I’m talking about and how to explain it in a way that won’t have you drifting away or missing the point.
If you take your car to a mechanic with 20+ years under his belt, it’s in good hands. Or if you need surgery, the doctor’s 25+ years of surgical residency will help to alleviate some of your fears. So, this is the same. Albeit I’m not performing life-saving heart surgery, all the same, you sure don’t want to put the fate of your wallet in the hands of an amateur.
With this in mind, I want to draw your attention to two particular areas. These are aspects of the online gambling industry that I believe to be of the utmost importance, and you’ll find that they run as a thread throughout all my content.
First up, never underestimate the importance of responsible gambling.
And number two, although we hate red tape, the UKGC is your friend.
Simon Says: Always Gamble Responsibly
Responsible gambling, in an industry sense, refers to the practices and measures designed to ensure gambling remains a fun form of entertainment rather than an activity that causes harm.
I will always encourage my readers to gamble responsibly. This means utilising online tools to set time and spending limits, educating yourself to ensure you fully understand the risks involved with the games you are playing, conducting self-assessments, and seeking help if you need it.
Such practices can significantly mitigate the effects of problem gambling by reducing financial losses, preventing addiction, and protecting your mental health.
I also firmly believe that all operators and industry providers have a moral obligation to support safer gambling practices, as the UK Gambling Commission does, which is why providing such resources is a legal requirement for operating in the UK.
Simon Says: Trust the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
If you’re unsure, the UK Gambling Commission is an independent regulator in the UK that oversees commercial gambling and regulates the National Lottery. It was established in 2007 under the Gambling Act 2005 to ensure what was at the time a fledgling industry developed to operate ethically and protect consumers.
The commission aims to ensure that gambling is conducted fairly and openly, to prevent it from being a source of crime or disorder, and to protect children and vulnerable individuals from harm associated with gambling activities.
The UKGC is one of the most respected regulatory bodies in the world and is considered a benchmark for regulatory standards. It regulates and enforces compliance with the strictest standards, ensuring the UK industry is a fair and safe place for players.
The UKGC is known for its rigorous regulatory framework compared to equivalent bodies in other jurisdictions. It emphasises consumer protection and responsible gambling while still allowing a healthy and enjoyable industry to flourish.
For this reason, I will only recommend casino sites licenced by the UKGC and recommend that you stick to these operators for your own protection.