British Columbia and BCLC Increase Support for Gambling Harm Research
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The British Columbia government, in collaboration with the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC), has announced an additional investment of CA$1.4 million to support gambling-related harm research in the province.
This initiative will aid the work taking place at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Centre for Gambling Research, a facility that has benefited from government and BCLC funding since its inception.
Since its establishment in 2014, the Centre has concentrated on both problem and responsible gambling. Its objectives include understanding gambling behaviors and developing more effective programs and treatments to mitigate the risks of problem gambling. The recent funding marks the third consecutive five-year term of financial support from the British Columbia government and BCLC.
Funding Welcomed by Government and BCLC Leaders
Mike Farnworth, the minister of public safety and solicitor-general, expressed gratitude for the Centre’s contributions.
As government continues to work toward its commitments of harm reduction and a public health approach to preventing problem gambling, we are grateful for the work the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC does. Its research and findings are integral to the development of policies within government and the steps we take to protect British Columbians from the harms of problem gambling.
Pat Davis, BCLC president and CEO, also acknowledged the value of the ongoing partnership with the research facility. Davis highlighted BCLC’s commitment to player well-being and the role of the Centre’s insights in enhancing gambling programs and initiatives.
Related: British Columbia to Check Casino Visitors Against Self-Exclusion List
BCLC’s Initiatives for Player Support
In its endeavor to safeguard players, BCLC has launched various schemes. Notable among these is the recent update to its voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) program, now rebranded as “Game Break”. The revamped program aims to reduce stigma and become more user-friendly. It includes an active reinstatement process for participants wishing to resume gambling, supplemented by an online course requirement for those returning to play.
Furthermore, BCLC has partnered with Everi Holdings to fortify its anti-money laundering measures. Everi now provides its Everi Compliance anti-money laundering software to assist BCLC’s diverse gaming operations, encompassing lottery, casino, bingo, and online gaming. This software is already in use across over 600 gaming properties in various markets.
More Responsible Gambling News
RELATED TOPICS: Responsible Gambling
Latest News
Most Read
Must Read
Interviews
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for British Columbia and BCLC Increase Support for Gambling Harm Research