Play in Focus

A good portrait needs a steady hand and a clear head. So does a good evening of play. Claret Parlour is free and nothing can be won, but casino-style games can still take more time than you meant to give them, and for some people they can lead towards real-money gambling.

Keep the picture in focus

• Set your sitting time before you start, and stop when it is up.
• Step out of the studio every half hour or so. Stretch, have a drink, look out of the window.
• Remember the plates are fictional. A run of luck here says nothing about real casinos.
• Do not play to escape stress, low mood or worries. Talk to someone instead.
• Keep it adult. If children use your device, clear the site data when you finish.

Signs the picture is blurring

• Playing longer than you planned, or feeling restless when you cannot play.
• Thinking about moving on to real-money gambling to "win it properly".
• Hiding how much you play, or neglecting sleep, work, study or people.
• Gambling elsewhere with money you cannot afford to lose.

Free, confidential help in the UK

If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, call 999. Samaritans are available free, day or night, on 116 123.

Taking a break from the studio

We hold no account for you, so the simplest break is to close the site and clear its data in your browser settings. GamCare and GAMSTOP can point you to free tools that block gambling and gaming sites on your devices.