British Columbia Lottery Corporation is upping its efforts against problem gambling, as the Crown agency makes updates to its Game Break self-exclusion program. According to the BCLC, the latest updates will make the program more approachable and introduce additional elements to support its ambition to have the healthiest bettors in the worldwide gambling industry.

The BCLC is the regulator of responsible gambling and lottery in the Province of B.C. Its Game Break program is part of its continued commitment to providing a higher standard of care for its many players. Its efforts are also aided by GameSense which is an award-winning player protection program available across numerous brick-and-mortar amenities and online.

Two Key Features

In its press release from this week, BCLC reports that the updated version of Game Break consists of two key points, a new name and a reinstatement process for players who decide to return. These changes will enable better support for bettors with a name that is more approachable for people who opt to enlist and support participants who wish to return to gambling.

Ryan McCarthy, Director of Player Health at the Crown, said that the idea is to make players gamble within their time and money limits and feel that they can take a break whenever they choose to. He elaborated that the new design should reduce barriers and destigmatize self-exclusion while also introducing a reinstatement process to help participants better understand their own gambling behaviours when they want to return.

Meanwhile, the terms of enrolment for the voluntary self-exclusion program will remain intact. Meaning a bettor can enlist for a 6-month, 1-year, 2-year or 3-year term. Once their preferred term is concluded, individuals who want to gamble again must first complete an online course, Game Plan. It aids gamblers in deciding whether returning is the right fit by providing a chance to self-reflect and set new goals.

It is expected that with an updated version that is inviting and supportive, the new Game Break should induce a sense of empowerment among bettors who consider taking a break from gambling. Mr. McCarthy said the changes are another way of upping the Crown’s efforts in helping players in making informed decisions about gambling and providing them with support and resources.

January Highlights

This January, the Crown corporation also inked a new partnership with Everi Holdings Inc. Via this agreement, the gaming supplier will deliver its Everi Compliance Anti-Money Laundering solution to the Crown. It will be integrated into its land-based and online casino activities. The technology is among the most commonly used and complex solutions in the industry implemented in over 600 properties.

For its hockey fans, the BCLC has also unveiled a collaboration with the Canucks Sports and Entertainment. This agreement will make the Crown corporation and its PlayNow official partners to the Abbotsford Canucks which competes in the American Hockey League. BCLC is also the official partner for both the Vancouver Canucks and Vancouver Warriors which are also owned by CSE.

Source: “Enhancements to BCLC’s Game Break Self-Exclusion Program Reduce Barriers” BCLC, January 30, 2023